Longtime Conejos resident Gary Robins, 87, passed away peacefully on August 17, 2026. 

Gary was born on May 20, 1939, in Walsh, Colorado, to Eugene and Hattie Mae Robins. On March 24, 1961, he married the love of his life, Suzan Robins, in Taos, New Mexico. 

Gary graduated from Adams State University in 1961 with a degree in education and later returned to earn his master's degree in administration. He dedicated many years of his life to education and made a lasting impact on students, educators, and communities throughout the San Luis Valley. He served as superintendent in Fort Garland for five years before becoming the director of BOCES in Alamosa. 

Gary had a lifelong love of sports and shared that passion by helping coach baseball and football at Centauri High School. He later pursued his lifelong dream of becoming a land developer, building many cabins throughout the Conejos Canyon. The mountains held a special place in Gary's heart, and he enjoyed spending time outdoors and traveling. 

Above all else, nothing brought Gary more happiness than being surrounded by his family. The time he spent with those he loved was among his greatest joys. 

Gary is survived by his loving wife, Suzan Robins; his children, Jack Robins, Tracey (Garth) Crowther, and his daughter in-law Bobbette Robins; eight grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; his brother, Bob Robins; and many cousins, nieces, nephews, friends, former students, and colleagues. 

He was preceded in death by his son, John Robins; his daughter-in-law, Christine Robins; his parents, Eugene and Hattie Mae Robins; two brothers; and two sisters. 

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Rogers Family Mortuary.

A viewing will be held Thursday, August 20, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Rogers Family Mortuary in Manassa. 

Funeral services will be held Friday, August 21, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 716 Broadway Street, La Jara, Colorado 81140. A viewing will be held from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service.

Interment will follow at the Manassa Cemetery