KENT – It is will great sadness to announce the passing and services for Tribal Elder and spiritual leader, Mr. Elwood Kent.

Elwood Kent passed away Sunday, September 19, 2021. He was 81 years old.

Elwood was born January 26, 1940, at the Taylor Hospital in Ignacio, Colorado. Elwood attended Shalako Indian School in Shalako, Oklahoma.

Upon his return to Ignacio, he was a police officer for 30 years, beginning in the reserve program. He worked his way through the ranks to eventually become the Chief of the Southern Ute Police Department. Elwood’s ranch has always been Spring Creek where he raised his horses, farmed and ranched. He was involved in the rodeo, bull riding, team roping and broke horses.

He is survived by his daughters: Mabel Sue Kent, Amelia Howe and Tina Valdez, sister: Neida Chackee; many grandchildren, nieces and nephews, extended family, traditional brothers and sisters, and wonderful friends.

He is preceded in death by his wife: Lizabeth; daughter: Eldina Mae Kent; and his mother: Ida Kent.

Visitation was at Hood Mortuary on Wednesday, September 22, 2021. A wake was held on Wednesday at his home (1815 C.R. 333, Ignacio, CO) with a Sunrise Service on Thursday, September 23, 2021. A graveside service followed along with an honoring meal at the Southern Ute Multi-Purpose Facility (256 Ute Road, Ignacio, CO).

In honor of Mr. Kent’s wishes, open microphone and honoring was limited at the gravesite. Sharing of stories and honorings are encouraged at the visitation, wake or honoring meal that will follow the graveside services.