Bear Wilson

Bear Wilson, 79, passed away in a peaceful moment after enduring a long illness. She is survived by her son James Rodgers, daughter-in-law Josie, and their sons Wilson and Taylor of Berthoud CO, and her son Brad Roelens of Lyons CO and Taos, NM, and numerous Kenins, Wilsons and Parkmans from Will's side of the family.Bear was born Lila B. Bergstrand in Oklahoma City, OK, and went to art school in San Francisco. In 1970 she moved to Taos with her sons Jim and Brad. She met Jim "Will" Wilson and they were married in 1973. In 1975 they moved to Colorado, where Bear established Ares, a Boulder thrift shop to benefit 27 different non-profits. Using various unwanted items from the shop she began to make sculptures that intrigued and delighted lovers of folk art. While in Boulder she and Will also took up the game of golf. They played with a passion thereafter and even became skilled at making golf clubs for themselves and friends. Then tragically their home, gardens and sculptures in Lyons, CO were washed away in the 2013 floods. Three months later Will died, and three months after that Bear's only sibling, Nancy Kay, died. After so much loss Bear decided to move back to Taos, a place she remembered for a simple and creative life. Although she had her sights on many more years of fine and folk art creations, her illness interrupted the dream.There was genius in Bear's resourceful and intuitive interaction with the world of found objects. She created a vast range of art, from pieces filled with humor made from items as unlikely as bowling balls, CD disks and old watches, to more intricate and complex human figures and beautiful leather tapestries.Bear's loving nature touched all who met her, and her creativity and humor are a lasting treasure!Condolences may be sent or emailed to Brad Roelens 30 Camino de Caballo Taos, NM 87557 and Bradroelens@gmail.com.Arrangements by Rivera Family Funeral Home. To share a memory, please visit our website at www.riverafuneralhome.comThis obituary is protected by copyright laws, unauthorized use or duplication is prohibited.