Marlo Rex Meakins went home to his Lord and Savior, Thursday, Sept. 13, 2018.
Marlo was born to Reginald Marlo and Pearlie Mae (Lambert) Meakins on Nov. 21, 1943. He grew up in Haxtun, “living the good life.” As the youngest of four children, Marlo enjoyed working with his dad and brother on the family farm, playing center on the high school football team, and graduating from high school among a class of 23. It was in Haxtun that he met his future wife, Donna Marie Prideaux. Marlo and Donna moved to Brighton after graduating from UNC with teaching degrees. They had two sons, Erik and Trent. In 1973 Marlo met “the love of his life” Linda Bridwell, they were married in 1978.
Marlo’s heart was focused on helping others become the best they could be. After graduating from college, he began his teaching career at North Junior High in Brighton. He moved on to begin his career as a Colorado State University Extension Agent. He served as 4H agent and horticulturist in Arapahoe County. His skill in helping others set and achieve their goals resulted in his appointment as Weld County Extension director. He moved to the Colorado State University campus when he was named North Central District director. He remained in that position until his retirement in December 1997.
As a result of being an Extension Horticulturist he met nursery owner and balloonist Don Ida. Thus, began a strong friendship and his love for hot air ballooning. He became crew chief for Don and could be found, most Sundays, flying hot air balloons. He loved spending time with his sons and grandsons, especially camping and fishing. Much to the children’s chagrin, it seemed that Marlo always picked the coldest, wettest and most uncomfortable times to go and nothing could make him pack up. Not one to let grass grow under his feet he worked various part time positions until he and Linda found Bucerias, Mexico. They enjoyed being snowbirds for more than 30 years.
Marlo is survived by his wife of almost 45 years, Linda (Bridwell); son, Trent (Dana Trujillo) of Aurora; grandsons, Noah (Maryden) and Nikolas all of Aurora; daughter-in-law, Jean Meakins of Henderson; and grandsons, Anthony and Mako; sister, Dola (Pat) Garretson of Loveland; and sisters-in-law, Patricia Meakins of Haxtun and Paula (Dan) Klotz of Thornton; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his eldest son, Erik; parents, Reginald and Pearlie Meakins; brother, Richard Meakins; sister, Betty Wolff; and brother-in-law, Delbert Wolff.
A celebration of Marlo’s life will be held from 2-4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 6, at the Charco Broiler, 1716 Mulberry, Fort Collins.
