Elmer Delores Hurst May 18, 1936 ~ March 29, 2026

Elmer Delores Hurst as born on May 18, 1936, in Cortez, Colorado, to Dolores and Nellie Hurst. He was the oldest of eleven children, with four brothers – Harold, William, Thomas, and Sidney, and six sisters – Thelma, Nora, Erma, Mirna, Norma, and Margaret.
From a young age, Elmer developed a deep love for the land and his family. He worked alongside his brothers Harold and William, spending long summer days clearing the family property on Deer Flat. These early experiences shaped his lifelong values of hard work and service.
Elmer faithfully served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Alberta, Canada. After returning home, he met and fell in love with a local schoolteacher, Muriel Lea Hanneman. They were married on June 11, 1962, in the Idaho Falls Temple, a meaningful midpoint between Bend, Oregon, and Blanding, Utah.
In the early years of their marriage, Elmer worked as a uranium miner and later leased and operated the Happy Jack Mine. During this time, he and Lea welcomed four children: Val, Dian, Ross, and Brian.
Elmer had a deep love for the outdoors, which he joyfully shared with his family. Living near his parents and siblings, he created lasting memories for his children, nieces, and nephews – many of whom fondly remember riding in or even driving his 1947 Willys Jeep.
He loved camping in the Elk Mountains, observing wildlife, and participating in annual elk hunting trips with his brothers and cousins. Lake Powell was another favorite place, where he enjoyed water skiing and boating.
After his mining years, Elmer operated a local greenhouse, where he worked alongside his children. Though they may not have always looked forward to transplanting plants after school, he instilled in them the importance of hard work and earning their own way. He also worked at the mill and took pride in maintaining the local Best Western.
Elmer had a special talent for making chocolates, a skill he learned from his sister Erma. Over the years, he became known for his mastery, and those fortunate enough to receive a box of his chocolates knew they were something special.
He was also famous for his homemade ice cream – his children often joked they were surprised he never figured out how to make Pepsi, too.
Following retirement, Elmer and Lea served a mission in Philadelphia from 2003 to 2004, where they worked to preserve historical genealogical records. He later said this time was especially meaningful because it allowed him to be with Lea so closely. After 46 years of marriage, Lea passed away in 2008.
In the spring of 2014, Elmer was blessed to marry Irene Jacobsen. During their 11 years together, he gained three stepsons—Chas, Dax, and Bret who welcomed him warmly into their lives. He cherished the time spent with them, especially their Sunday night gatherings. Irene and her family provided unwavering love and support in his later years as he faced health challenges.
Elmer is survived by his beloved wife, Irene Hurst; his siblings Mirna Suppenbach, Norma Longman, Harold Hurst, William Hurst, Sidney Hurst, and Thomas Hurst; his children Val (Nancy) Hurst, Dian (Phil) Acton, Ross (Kesa) Hurst, and Brian (Myken) Hurst; and his stepsons Chas Jacobsen (Monica), Dax Jacobsen (Anita), and Brett Jacobsen (Marci).
He is proceeded in death by his parents, sisters Thelma Heartlauer, Nora Yoakam, Erma Myers, Margaret Miller, and wife Lea
Elmer Hurst – father, brother, grandfather, and devoted husband – will be deeply missed. The Hurst family would like to express our appreciation and love to all that have shown your support and love during this sorrowful time of loss. Thank you for your love, kindness, prayers and friendship.