Douglas L. Ditus

Douglas L. Ditus, 72, passed away October 8, 2014 after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. He was a long-time resident of Elbert County in Elizabeth, Colorado. Memorial Service will be Tuesday, October 14, 10:30 AM at the Kiowa Creek Presbyterian Church in their Fellowship Hall, 231 Cheyenne Street, Kiowa with Pastor Jim Emig officiating. A private burial will take place in Elizabeth Cemetery. Doug was born in Wichita, Kansas on April 20, 1942. He grew up in Burdett, Kansas and graduated from Burdett High School. He continued on to receive an Associates degree from Lassen Junior College and a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from Fort Hays State College. He married his high school sweetheart, Sharon, on February 7, 1961, and celebrated 53 years of marriage. Doug held a number of careers. He started out with the US Geological Survey working on a survey crew mapping the topography of the western United States. He transitioned into working as a livestock buyer for Hormel Foods. These careers required numerous moves; therefore, Doug made a change and began working in lending and banking with the Production Credit Association, Agri-Store, and the Kiowa State Bank. He enjoyed motorcycling, camping, softball, golf, bowling, gardening and dancing. He was also actively involved in the Lions Club, Republican Party, and clerked livestock sales for the 4-H clubs in Elbert County. Doug is survived by his wife Sharon; children Tammy Jo (Jerry) McWhorter, Kurt Darold Ditus and Karl Leon (Pam) Ditus; grandchildren Heather and Shawn McWhorter, Garrett, Kaylyn, Graham and Mackenzie Ditus; great grandchildren Addison, Troy and Sadie McWhorter; siblings Gregory (Glenda) Ditus, Jeanette Ryan and Fredrick (Vonah) Ditus; numerous nieces and nephews; and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents Leon and Lorena Ditus. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to American Diabetes Association - Denver, 2460 W 26th Ave, #500C, Denver, CO 80211. The family of Douglas Ditus wishes to thank all those who have made phone calls and sent cards supporting him during his battle with cancer. Please share your memories of Doug and condolences with his family by selecting the Guestbook link below.