Marcus (Keith) Catlin

Marcus “Keith” Catlin, 91 years old of Montrose, passed away the morning of Sunday, December 10, 2023. Keith, a row-crop farmer on Spring Creek Mesa for over 70 years, has been a pillar of the Montrose community since he and his family moved into the area in 1949 with wife Donna. Keith played a vital role in the agricultural community where he was a member and the President of the Uncompahgre Valley Water Users Association and served as Board President of Chipeta Water. Keith took his talents to serve as member and board member of Montrose/Olathe Producers CO-OP, and was active in the water and soil conservation districts. Notably, Keith was a three-time Governor appointee to the Colorado Water Conservation Board. He was elected to the Montrose County School Board.

Keith and Donna were prolific farmers growing corn, beets, onions, pinto beans, and even lettuce. They were instrumental in bringing Coors Barley to the valley. Catlins raised Olathe Sweet Corn since its inception and also growing sweet corn seed and certified bean seed. Keith Catlin Farms won numerous awards for high quality and high quantity crops.

As a life-time member of the Montrose Elks Lodge, he and Donna enjoyed dancing to live music for years. The couple danced under the stars at the Arcadia Ballroom with country western greats. They enjoyed snowmobiling and skiing on Dallas Divide. Keith was an expert water-skier and enjoyed his time on the waters in Colorado and Lake Powell.

Keith and Donna were married for over 70 years and raised two sons Marc and Greg. The tight-knit family enjoyed work and adventures on the family farm.

Keith was preceded in death by his parents Roy and Mamie Catlin, brothers Verel and Wallace, wife Donna, and son Greg. Keith is survived by son Marc (Kerri), daughter-in-law Martha, grandchildren Keith, Kelli, Marcus, Meghan (Zach) Watts, Karson (Tate) Brown, Roy (Melanie), and Hannah; nephew Wallace ”Bub” Catlin, nieces Barbara (Catlin) Allen, Phyllis (Catlin) Scott, and six great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Friends and family are invited to the funeral service Wednesday, December 20th at 2:00pm, Montrose Christian Church, 2351 Sunnyside Road, with graveside service following at Cedar Creek Cemetery, and reception to follow.

Crippin Funeral Home of Montrose is assisting Mr. Catlin’s family.