Meet the Team

For over 65 years Deer Valley Ranch has been a home-away-from-home for people from across the globe. With a rich history in hospitality, ministry, outdoor adventure, and horsemanship, Deer Valley Ranch is committed to being a place where people can come together and build memories that will last a lifetime. 

Byron Sims

Byron Sims

Ranch Manager

Byron has been the manager at Deer Valley since 2021. His entire family has worked at Deer Valley at one time or another, with his wife and oldest son preceding him at the ranch as “crew” staff, years before his arrival. Byron first moved to the area in the early 90s to work for Young Life and fell in love with the mountains and people of Buena Vista. He and his family love their local church family and getting out into the majestic Colorado outdoors.

Mary Como

Mary Como

Booking Agent

Mary has been at Deer Valley Ranch since 2021 helping guests book their reservations in the beautiful mountains of Buena Vista, Colorado. Whether you are looking to book a mini weekend getaway to a summer package, group event, or family reunion, Mary will help you navigate through the details to make that dream come true. Living in Colorado for over 25 years she has enjoyed the beauty of this colorful state with her husband and three children. Mary’s passion for adventure has taken her outdoors hiking 14ers, rock climbing, biking, marathons, riding horses, and sharing these experiences with her family. She looks forward to helping you book your next adventure to the beautiful Colorado mountains!

Kelly Adams

Kelly Adams

Housekeeping Manager

Kelly is a southern belle turned mountain girl. She and her husband, Jeremiah, relocated from Tennessee to pursue adventures in gold prospecting. She has worked in the housekeeping industry for more than three decades and takes pride in her work and the work of her team. She and her staff will make sure your stay is one you’ll enjoy, taking the time to ensure everything is clean and perfect. Before leaving Tennessee, she raised 3 amazing kids who have blessed her with many grandchildren (11 and counting).
Dave Burtness

Dave Burtness

Legendary Groundskeeper & Ranch Historian

Big Dave has been a beloved member at Deer Valley Ranch since he first arrived in 1978, and we’re delighted to continue to hear his cowboy poetry and stories about the Wild West! He loves mules and is a true grit cowboy. The Colorado Springs snapped the above picture, starring Radar and Big Dave coming down from St. Elmo.

Stacey Turner

Stacey Turner

Director of Hospitality

Originally born and raised in Michigan. Stacey is an Air Force veteran who moved to Colorado over 35 years ago. She has been serving in hospitality for over 20 years and has worked in all aspects of the industry as owner, manager of a venue, including being recognized as part of the team of best wedding planner (silver) from Best of the Springs in 2016.

Stacey’s passion for hospitality, events, and people led her to serve in both the government and private sector. Her organization, attention to detail, and enthusiasm for each group leaves guests with peace of mind to have a stress-free and enjoyable stay. Stacey is a mom to a five grown children and three grandchildren. She enjoys learning about historical architecture (especially Victorian), walking along the creek behind her house, and having fun in the mountains of Colorado.

Melanie Coleman

Melanie Coleman

Executive Chef

Melanie is a Colorado native and has lived in Chaffee County for 20 years. She has been honing her skills as a chef for 28+ years. Melanie has a love for all animals. Mushroom hunting and rock hunting keeps her out of trouble when she’s not in the kitchen.

Marjorie Kiss

Marjorie Kiss

Front Office Manager

Marjorie is our Oregon girl who loves the outdoors. She recently moved to Colorado for the scenic mountains, blue skies and amazing people! She enjoys interacting with guests and enjoys Hungarian food!

Deer Valley Ranch operated with the help of dozens of seasonal staff each summer. We are grateful for their passion, enthusiasm, hospitality, and service. Know someone who wants to work at Deer Valley Ranch for the summer?

Check out our employment page here.  

Meet the Werner Family