Bluff guide found deceased

The search for Jo­seph “Joe” Pachak, a longtime Bluff resident and well-known guide, ended in tragedy De­cember 9 after authori­ties confirmed he was found deceased in a pond on his property.

Joseph Pachak / Courtesy of the San Juan County Sheriff’s Office.

Pachak, 75, had been reported missing on Nov. 27 after friends and neighbors real­ized they had not seen or heard from him for several days. His dis­appearance prompted a multi-day search effort led by the San Juan County Sheriff’s Office, with help from search-and-rescue vol­unteers, local resi­dents and people who knew Pachak through his years of work in the Bears Ears region.

Deputies said Pachak was located during a continued search of areas surround­ing his home. The sheriff’s office has not released additional de­tails about the circum­stances of his death, and the investigation remains open. Offi­cials said there is no indication of foul play, and they expressed appreciation for the community’s patience and cooperation as the review moves forward.

Pachak’s home had shown signs of ordinary activity, according to earlier information from family members. His wallet, identifica­tion, phone and truck were found inside, along with a meal left out and recent work in his greenhouse and on a plumbing project. Relatives said he had made holiday plans and had been looking forward to visits and gatherings in the com­ing weeks.

The news has left the tight-knit Bluff com­munity grieving the loss of someone widely regarded as a cultural and historical fixture in the region. Pachak was known for his art, archaeological field­work and education efforts that introduced residents and visitors to the landscape and stories of the Bears Ears area. Community members have been sharing memories on­line and offering sup­port to the family as they navigate the dif­ficult days ahead.

Further information will be released as it becomes available.