When my first book was being published, I had an important name to include in the acknowledgements—Peter Decker. In my thanks I called him “Colorado’s

Peter was a historian. He wrote about history, taught history and created his story. I loved his stories and was not shy about embellishing them.

A number of years ago at a party in New York celebrating the release of his newly published book, THE UTES MUST GO, Peter Decker,

I’ve known Peter for more than 40 years; first as a professor and mentor at Duke University during the late 1970’s and then after I

Gun-toting, irrigation fixer, great story-teller and my friend and support for my own writing — memories all these years. With love from Cactus Pete.

Graduation day 1957, some 64 years ago, our ROTC unit was lining up forthe Commencement ceremony. After Decker, Peter was called it wasclear that he

Not sure where or when I noticed it but it was an attention-getter. Sittingon the “throne” in the loo at one of Peter’s domiciles, I

Helping to doctor cows. Giving them a variety of shots. To make sure thevaccinated cows were identified, the hair at the end of the tail

Winter exams were over. It was midnight and Peter said “Let’s go seePhyllis.” Peter had a Plymouth station wagon. He said he would drive.Approximately one

When I think of Peter, I remember all the wonderful places we have been together all over theworld. I start with his wedding to Deedee