Body of missing Bluff resident Joe Pachak recovered

Longtime Bluff resident Joseph Pachak's body was recovered from a pond on his property on December 9 by law enforcement personnel.
San Juan County Sheriff's office shared that next of kin and family have been notified with the Sheriff's department extending their "sincerest condolences to the Pachak family during this difficult time. We would also like to thank everyone involved in the search and recovery of Joseph and for their dedication and efforts."
The sheriff's office adds that Pachak's body has been sent to the Medical Examiner's Office for further examination.
Pachak was first reported missing on Thursday November 27 at 5:11 pm. Pachak had missed two planned Thanksgiving dinners with friends in Bluff.
Over the holiday weekend search and rescue volunteers and local community members searched for Pachak with the search scaled back on Monday, December 1.
When he was first reported missing it was shared that his cell phone and wallet were in his house with his truck also at his house.
Pachak is a long-time resident of Bluff. A renowned sculptor, his art can be found throughout San Juan County, including multiple sculptural pieces at Edge of the Cedars State Park Museum in Blanding.
Pachak also organized and created a nearly decade-long popular tradition of burning a wooden animal in Bluff during the winter solstice.
The San Juan Record will share any updates on planned public services as that information becomes available.