By Lindy Browning | Contributing Writer, Rocky Mountain Voice
Newly-elected Montrose County Commissioner, Rick Dunlap, died suddenly Feb. 8, 2025, leaving the Montrose community in grief and shock.
Dunlap, who also served as sheriff for Montrose County for three terms before he retired in 2018, was well known and beloved by the community he served. In total, Dunlap served 28 years in law enforcement, as well as serving the U.S. Army for 21 years.
“Rick lived his life with unwavering commitment to the values he cherished most: faith, family, country, community and his friends and neighbors,” Montrose County wrote in a statement upon his death. “His kindness, strength and dedication touched the lives of many, and his presence in our community will be sorely missed.”
Commissioner Sue Hansen added: “This is a devastating loss for Rick’s family, Montrose County and our entire community. Rick’s impact was felt far and wide, and we will carry his memory with us.”
Law enforcement agencies from across the Western Slope also mourned the former sheriff.
“The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office and I extend our sympathy to the Montrose County Sheriff’s Office upon the sudden passing of former Sheriff Rick Dunlap,” said Mesa County Sheriff Todd Rowell. “Sheriff Dunlap was a great leader and impactful law enforcement partner for our agency. Sheriff Dunlap retired after a decorated 28-year law enforcement career, including three terms as sheriff. His life was dedicated to service, shown not only through his law enforcement career, but also by a 21-year career in the U.S. Army and extensive volunteer and nonprofit work. We send our condolences to Sheriff Dunlap’s family and loved ones and the entire Montrose County Sheriff’s Office. He will be greatly missed.”
With the announcement on social media that Commissioner Dunlap had passed away, tributes from hundreds of people who knew him demonstrated how deeply his loss was being felt in the region.
Keith Sanders posted, “A veteran brother, brother in blue, man of God, man of integrity, true leader, mentor, servant of the community, and most of all, a true friend…Thank you …The profession of law enforcement lost a real hero. I am at a great loss. Prayers for peace and comfort to the Dunlap family.”
Services for Commissioner Dunlap will be held on Feb. 13 at the Montrose County Event Center at 11 a.m.