Innovator, visionary, and difference-maker
Lyle Richard (Dick) Bratton (1932–2025) was a devoted community leader, renowned attorney, and champion of education and water rights in Gunnison, Colorado.
Dick began his lifelong connection with Gunnison in 1950 when he attended Western State College (now Western Colorado University) on an academic scholarship. A standout athlete, he played football, won two conference wrestling championships, and ran track. He also served as student body president. In 1953, he married Donna Rae Howard in Gunnison, and they remained together for nearly 70 years.
After graduating in 1954, Dick earned a law degree at the University of Colorado and briefly practiced in Denver before returning to Gunnison in 1958 to join Ed Dutcher’s law firm. He built a distinguished legal career specializing in water and natural resources law, representing the Upper Gunnison River Water Conservancy District for over 40 years. His work secured crucial water rights, enhanced environmental protections, and bolstered Gunnison’s recreation industry. His leadership extended to the Colorado Water Congress, where he served as president, and he was later appointed by President George W. Bush to chair the Upper Colorado Water Commission.
Beyond law, Dick was a dedicated advocate for Western Colorado University. In 1963, he joined the Board of Trustees for the State Colleges of Colorado, later serving as president. He co-founded the Western Water Workshop with Duane Vandenbusche and helped establish the Western Colorado University Foundation, which funds scholarships and faculty initiatives. His efforts led to the acquisition of land for the Rady Building and the development of Western’s outdoor recreation program.
A fixture in the Gunnison community, Dick supported Western’s athletics, music, and theatre programs and was a passionate sports fan. He cherished his friendships and was known for his ability to connect with anyone, earning the nickname “The Mayor.”
Dick received numerous awards, including Western’s Outstanding Alumni Award, Lifetime Achievement Award, Athletic Hall of Fame inductee and was honored at last year’s Mountaineer Gala. His legacy lives on through his contributions to Western, Gunnison, and Colorado water policy.
Memorial services will be held at Western’s Paul Wright Gymnasium on March 2, 2025, at 1 p.m., with a celebration of life at I Bar Ranch on June 28, 2025, at 6 p.m. Donations may be made to the Dick and Donna Scholarship Fund in his memory. May he rest in Peace.
