Donald Lawrence McBee

Donald Lawrence McBee  

Sept 16, 1936- Aug 29, 2024 

Surrounded by his loving family, Don, age 87, died on Aug 29, 2024 in the quiet repose of his home on the farm he loved. He will be missed by many.  

He was a person known for his dry wit, intelligence, love of the land, truth, integrity, and devotion to his family. Born in Holyoke, CO, raised in Rifle, CO, Don graduated from Rifle High School (1954) and later was appointed to West Point Military Academy and later graduated Ranger School. In 1962, he married his high school sweetheart, Janis. He served 20 years in the US Army as an Armor/Infantry officer with two tours in Vietnam. He was the recipient of 2 Bronze Stars retiring at the rank of Lt Colonel in 1981. During his last years of service while stationed at Fort Monmouth, NJ, he attended law school at Seton Hall University, NJ.  

Don returned to Colorado with his family. He practiced law in GJ for 38 Years and was often referred to as “one of those honest sort of lawyers.” He felt strongly about helping the less privileged and sought to treat everyone with respect. He enjoyed arguing points of law along with the critical thinking required to best represent his clients. 

Don is survived by Janis, his wife of 62 years, their daughter Stephanie Fowler (spouse Andy), their daughter Deanna McBee Galanis; their grandchildren Hannah Murphy Fowler (spouse Mac Murphy Fowler), Mathew Fowler, Joshua Fowler (fiancé Amy Burkel), Mason Galanis, Paige Galanis and their great granddaughter Naya Murphy Fowler; his sisters Patricia Backes and Coleen (Tawni) McBee along with many nieces and nephews. Don is preceded in death by his son Derek and brother Harold.  

A private memorial service will be held on October 18, 2024 at the First Presbyterian Church in Grand Junction. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his name to Hope West Hospice Center, 3090 12th Street, Grand Junction, CO 81503 or The Long Grey Line Fund sent to Gift Operations, WPAOG, 698 Mills Road, West Point, NY 10996. Make checks payable to West Point Assoc. of Graduates and designate The Long Gray Line Fund in the memo section.