James Michael Kehr

James Michael Kehr, 73, passed away on June 7, 2026. Born on September 15, 1952, in Colorado Springs, Colorado, James was the son of Jack Kehr and Phyllis Hingle. Shortly after his birth, the family moved to Creede, where he was raised and developed a lifelong love of the outdoors.

Growing up in Creede, James enjoyed playing basketball and hunting. Like many in the area, he spent part of his early life working in the silver mines, building the grit and work ethic that defined him.

James had a deep appreciation for nature and captured its beauty through photography, often focusing on Creede, local wildlife, and his family. One of his photographs remains on display at Rio Grande Hospital in Del Norte a lasting testament to his eye for detail and love for his home.

In 1974, James married Ruean Basham, and together they had three children: Brandi, Christie, and Timothy.

In 1981, he married the love of his life, Vickie Cottrell. James adopted her children, Ryan and Amanda, and together they welcomed Justin and Thaddeus, building a large and close-knit family.

James and Vickie went on to establish the Hungry Logger Restaurant in South Fork, Colorado. Over 26 years, “The Logger” became a beloved local landmark filled with stories, laughter, and memories for both the community and travelers passing through.

After Vickie’s passing in 2007, James returned to Creede to care for his mother, remaining there after her passing. During this time, he reconnected with his lifelong best friend, Andy Brink. The two could often be seen riding around together true outdoorsmen accompanied by their dogs and sharing in the simple joys of life.

James was an avid outdoorsman who found peace in hunting, fishing, camping, and mushroom hunting. His connection to the land and rugged independence made him truly one of a kind.

In 2019, he moved to Delta, Colorado, where he spent his final years living with his son Thaddeus and family. He cherished time with his grandchildren, especially Trinity and Tristan.

James was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Phyllis Kehr, and his beloved wife, Vickie Kehr.

He is survived by his children: Brandi McClure, Christie Rea, Timothy Kehr (Jana), Ryan Kehr, Amanda Thomas (Travis), Justin Kehr, and Thaddeus Kehr (Kelly); along with many grandchildren Jesse Gallegos (Brittany), Amber Hoerr (Jason), Harlee Kehr, Cali Kehr, Mark Bowden, Aryonna Means, Tyler Rea, Kaden Schnack, Brody Cheevers, Braelynn Cheevers, William Sonnier, Wyatt Thomas, Easton Thomas, Trinity Kehr, Tristan Kehr and Spencer Kehr and seven great-grandchildren, all of whom carry forward his legacy.

James will be remembered for his strong spirit, love of the outdoors, dedication to his family, and the lasting imprint he left on the communities he was part of. He truly lived life his own way and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.