Donald J. Manton Jr., an avid outdoorsman, successful retailer, and loving father, passed away Saturday, December 9, 2017 in his Denver home following an eight-year battle with cancer. He was 76.

Don, an easygoing entrepreneur, owned and operated various retail stores in Summit County, Colorado for over 20 years. His flagship store, John Henry's, was one of the first locations in the county selling Levis and casual wear. Don grew J. Henry Outfitters into a thriving establishment which would come to be known for its exclusive selection of high-end outdoor brands including Patagonia, The North Face and Marmot.

Born in Brewerton, New York on July 8, 1941, Don was the oldest of four brothers. At the age of 18 he sought to see the world, and on October 14, 1959, he enlisted in the Navy and served on the aircraft carrier USS Forrestal CV-59. He was honorably discharged in October of 1963 after three years of service, and transferred to the Navy Reserves. Following his naval tour, Don attended Dickinson State College in Dickinson, North Dakota before moving to Colorado in 1967.

Living in Denver and working as a salesman for Arrow Shirts, Don would travel up to the mountains on the weekend to fuel his passion for skiing. During this period, he became a frequent attendee and lifelong fan of the Denver Broncos. By the early 70's he was fed up with being a weekend warrior and quit his job to put down roots in Summit County.

Don spent 35 years as a resident of the county where he raised his three children, Jesse, Tessa and Tucker.

Living for the outdoors, Don loved sharing his passions with others. He spent his days mountain biking, sailing, windsurfing, skiing, fishing, and sea kayaking. He was always fashioned in the latest attire from his stores. For many years and right up until his death, Don travelled the country in his camper seeking thrills and adventure.

In his later life Don became quite the craftsman, spending much of his time in his Denver workshop hand-building beautiful wooden furniture for his family and friends. These pieces of artistic passion remain as an enduring pillar to his legacy.

Don was an incredibly generous person, always looking to provide a helping hand to friends, neighbors, or a random stranger. He was a loving father to his children, respected businessman, dear friend to many, wonderful brother, and caring son.

He is survived by his three children Jesse, Tessa, and Tucker Manton, his mother Betty Manton, and his brothers Sonny, Jimmy, and Dooley Manton.

The family will be hosting a celebration of Don's life at the Frisco Nordic Center Adventure Park Day Lodge, in Frisco, CO on March 3, 2018 from 6:30-9:00pm. All who knew and loved Don are invited to attend.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family asks that donations be made in his memory to the American Cancer Society at donate.cancer.org