Larry Connolly, the La Plata County surveyor, died suddenly Monday. He was in his late 50s.
Connolly likely passed away from natural causes, and an autopsy was planned Wednesday, said Coroner Jann Smith.
He was first elected county surveyor in November 2000, and he had served continuously ever since. He was also the owner of Animas Surveying and Mapping.
“We extend our condolences to his wife, Stacey DeJong, his daughter, Savana, and his entire family,” said Gwen Lachelt, La Plata County Commissioner in a statement. “Larry exercised his office with commitment, enthusiasm and integrity, and we are so grateful for his service to the citizens of La Plata County.”
His last official act as surveyor was on Independence Day, when Connolly walked in the Bayfield and Durango parades with county-elected officials and staff members.
Connolly also served as a surveyor representative for the County Elected Officials Salary Commission to the governor, helped start the Four Corners Area Surveying Seminar Committee and served as the director of the Professional Land Surveyors of Colorado.
mshinn@durangoherald.com
