Category: Obituaries

May 9, 1960 – October 21, 2022

Brian Richard Disney passed away October 21, 2022 at Assured Senior

Living from brain cancer. After noticing memory loss in January of this year,

Brian was diagnosed with a glioblastoma multiforme brain tumor.

Born in Denver on May 9, 1960 to Alice and Jeremiah (Jerry), Brian was a

long-time resident of Arvada, attending Peck Elementary, Arvada Junior

High, and Arvada High School. After graduating high school in 1978, Brian

earned his B.S. in Petroleum Engineering at Colorado School of Mines. His

first job was with Philipps Petroleum in Denver. Not long after, Brian was

transferred to Aberdeen, Scotland to work in the North Sea on an offshore

oil platform. During the four years he lived in Scotland Brian was able to

travel extensively throughout Europe and also became a Licensed

Professional Engineer. After returning to Denver and between jobs, Brian

attended the University of Colorado, Boulder to earn his M.S. in Civil

Engineering (Environmental, Water, and Chemical). In his retirement, he

enjoyed spending time both here in Colorado and at his lake house in

Minnesota. Brian was also in the midst of building his dream mountain

house in Tabernash when he was diagnosed. He loved playing golf, scuba

diving, racquetball, skiing, fishing, camping, riding his motorcycle, and

traveling. Poker games with friends were also regular events at his house.

Four years ago Brian became a proud first-time dog owner when he

brought Hudson, his beloved Cavalier King Charles, home. From that

moment Brian and Hudson became nearly inseparable.

Brian fought his cancer as long as he could, going through radiation and

several rounds of chemotherapy. During that time he lived his life as best

as he could, enjoyed spending time with family and friends and celebrating

birthdays and holidays.

Brian was preceded in death by his dad, Jeremiah. He is survived by his

mother, Alice, brother, Craig, sister, Diane, nephews Kyle and Marc, Uncle

Bob Nylen, Aunt Michele Nylen, Aunts Helen and Sandy, and numerous

cousins.

The family requests donations be sent to the American Cancer Society.

November 18, 1932 – October 13, 2022

Jacqueline “Jackie” Ruth Christiansen was born 11/18/32 in Alexandria, MN to Rev. and Mrs. E.J. Dreyer.

She was baptized 12/4/32 by her father at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Parkers Prairie, MN.

She was confirmed on 6/23/46 at Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church in Miltona, MN.

Jackie is survived by her husband Frank, two daughters Kim Christiansen (Feith) and Keri

Christiansen of Denver, CO, and a grandson, Tanner. She is also survived by her sister,

Geraldine Gloystein, Arvada, CO. She was preceded in death by her parents and by her brother,

E. James Dreyer.

Jackie met her husband, Frank Christiansen, at Emmaus Lutheran Church in Denver, and they

were united in marriage on 12/15/57 in Omaha, NE. Jackie’s father, Rev. E.J. Dreyer, performed

the ceremony.

Jackie was active in Choir, Sunday School, and LWML in various churches where she had

membership over the years.

She was employed by Jefferson Public Schools, the Nebraska State Highway Department,

Lutheran Family Services in Omaha, Family and Children’s Service in Denver, KSWS-TV in

Roswell, NM, and by W Mitchell, a renowned motivational speaker.

Jackie devoted her life to caring for her mother who was widowed at an early age, her family,

and her grandson, Tanner.

Memorials may be made to Bethlehem Lutheran Church for scholarships supporting young

people going into the ministry: bethlehemdenver.com, 303-238-7676.

June 30, 1951 – October 6, 2022

Karl George Scholz, of Arvada, Colorado died on Thursday, October 6, 2022. The son of

George Everett Scholz and Josephine Elizabeth Hinkle Scholz, Karl was born on June 30,

1951 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the second child and only son in a family of five children.

His gifts for words, for all things detailed and mechanical, and for music showed up early and

these passions were always a part of his life – a life that Karl lived on his own terms.

A musical prodigy, music was a part of who Karl was, and he loved music of all kinds – from

blues to classical to rock and roll. Whenever you were around Karl, you were also around music.

Growing up, music was always emanating from his bedroom – either the live playing of his

trumpet or the recorded playing of some song from his vast collection of vinyl – a collection

which he began as a child and which included over 1,000 albums when he died. He could pick

up almost any instrument and, within a couple of hours have figured out how to play it, and he

especially loved the harmonica, which he played for a variety of bands.

After graduating from Arvada West High School in 1969, Karl leapt into life with both feet,

leading a bohemian lifestyle that included many friendships, adventures, jobs, and pursuits

including working as a mechanic and as a “roadie” for many years. A “motorhead”, Karl loved

cars of all kinds and his favorite hobby was model-making. He leaves behind an impressive

array of model cars and planes – all lovingly put together with an extraordinary attention for

detail. For Karl always found pleasure in the details of life – the things that many of us overlook

– and he had an amazing memory. As a child he read the dictionary to learn unusual words –

which he loved using – and he always retained a vast knowledge of music, remembering tunes,

lyrics, songs, titles, artists . . .

Never a healthy person, in his middle age Karl developed Primary Lateral Sclerosis – a type of

ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease – which slowly stripped him of all mobility until, for the past

couple of years, he became home bound. He even had difficulty communicating – the disease

effected his speech and even his ability to use his cell phone for texting. And he could be a

difficult person – in fact some people used the term “curmudgeon” to describe his personality.

But he retained his unique capacity to find the joy in life’s small moments. He could sit for

hours and watch the squirrels outside his window eating the peanuts he kept for the home health

people to put in the feeders when they left the house after caring for him, he loved looking at his

coin collection, and he also loved his family and friends deeply – he was sensitive, kind, and

very sentimental. 

His many possessions – most of them mementos from his and his family’s past

– were arranged “just-so” so that he could always see them, and he remembered wonderful

stories about each and every one of them. And he continued his model-making. Sometimes it

would take days for him to put even one small part of some complicated car model together, but

when a model was done, he displayed it proudly. And even when he could no longer make

music, he always had it playing in some way in his house. His physical life was completely

confined and yet he still found joy in living.

Karl is survived by his four sisters and their husbands – Carol and Richard Buckalew, Judith and

Francis Castonguay, Barbara and Jim Banks, and Susan and Warren Kunish; many nieces and

nephews and great nieces and nephews; one Aunt – Zelma Levering; and many cousins. 

Karl’s life will be celebrated with a funeral on Thursday, November 3rd , at 1:00 p.m. at Christ the King

Episcopal Church, 6490 Carr Street, Arvada Colorado with a reception following. 

Donations in his memory can be made to the ALS Association:

https://secure2.convio.net/alsa/site/Donation2?df_id=34740&34740.donation=form1

May 11, 1932 – September 21, 2022

90 years old!

Velma was the 10th of 10 children, affectionately called “Bubbles”. Her happy personality, warm smile and generous spirit were a joy to all her knew her, Velma had a wonderful sense of humor, quick wit, and accepted all with love.

Velma is survived by her three sons, Harry (wife Robin), James (wife Carolyn), Steve (wife Elisabeth), Ruth Durgin, Grandchildren: Luke, Evan, David, Erik, Jill, Diana and Raych, and Great Grandchildren: Theo, Rhys.

She is missed by all.

Memorial will be held for the immediate family later this year.

November 5, 1943 – September 19, 2022

Sharon Marlene Steffke passed away on September 19th, 2022. She is proceeded in death by her son, Chris Bergendoff. She is survived by her husband, Steve, her dogs, additional family members, and many dear friends. Sharon’s ashes will be scattered in the mountains at a private event, per Sharon’s request.

Sharon was born on November 5th, 1943 in Nampa Idaho. Sharon was the eldest of 4 children to Willard and Irene Sitts. Sharon’s family moved several times, finally settling in Northern, Illinois where Sharon married and had a son, Chris Bergendoff. Sharon fiercely loved and supported Chris in any way she could – she was even his Den Mother in Cub Scouts.

Sharon’s work career began when she was in High School in Idaho as a carhop. She worked across the street from a competitive burger joint owned by some guy named Paul Revere (later of the Raiders). Sharon was so good that they were constantly trying to steal her away.

In 1977, Sharon was a single mother working in a factory. During her midnight shift, she met a coworker, Steve Steffke, who became her best friend, husband, and soulmate for the next 45 years.

In 1978, Sharon married Steve. Sharon and Steve created their first home together in Elgin, Illinois where Sharon worked in Nursing at Sherman Hospital and Steve worked in the Hi-Fi Business. Steve’s work eventually led them to Lakewood, Colorado in 1980. In Colorado, Sharon worked as a Telephone Secretary for 10 years before she and Steve became partners of their own Landscape Business called “Backache Acres.” Sharon and Steve would grow their business for the next 25 years. Sharon often commented “How Lucky they were to know such wonderful clients that really were Good Friends.”

Sharon had many interests that kept her busy including Cooking, Mystery Novels, Classic T.V., Thrift Store Treasures, Their Beloved Dog’s, Camping and Hiking, Concerts at Red Rocks, and Season Tickets to Bronco Games. Once, Sharon and Steve got tickets to the Super Bowl (Super Bowl XXXIII in Miami). However, instead of going to the game, they traded the tickets for a hail-dinged camper trailer. Sharon nicknamed the trailer “Dimples.” The family would enjoy Dimples for the next 20 years.

Sharon was also a Community Activist. When a lake near her family home of 32 years was threatened, Sharon helped lead the effort to “Save our Lake” from developers.

In 2001, while out hiking in Golden Gate Canyon State Park, Sharon had a heart attack. After a dramatic mountain-side rescue that included a helicopter evacuation, Sharon met the cardiologist who would help her recover and resume her active lifestyle..

In 2014, Sharon and Steve’s lives were shattered by the unexpected death of their son Chris. Sharon’s ever-present optimistic spirit was broken. Sharon and Steve retired to an empty nest lifestyle with their dog’s, Kiki and Rusty. Sharon’s heart health continued to decline until multiple organ failure took her to Heaven.

Donations in Sharon’s honor can be made to Table Mountain Animal Shelter.

February 18, 1933 – September 15, 2022

Richard Miller Kreutzer died on September 15, 2022. He was 89 years old.

Richard was born on February 18, 1933 to Louis G. and Vera Kreutzer (nee Drake). The family lived in the Bronx, NY before moving to Bronxville, NY. Richard often shared fond memories of his childhood with brother Louis (Lou).

During his high school years, Richard shined as a talented athlete exceling in football, basketball, and especially baseball. Later in high school, members of the New York Giants baseball club would pick him up after school to pitch batting practice to the team.

After graduation from Bronxville High School, Richard attended Duke University where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in political science and played baseball on the college team. He was offered a major league baseball position in Philadelphia, but declined due to college and military service obligations. Upon graduation, Richard served in the United States Air Force and was stationed in Labrador, Canada, where his memories of the cold led him to enjoy sunning for years to follow.

Richard married Barbara Wright (nee Herb) and the couple moved to Denver, CO where he began a lifetime career in banking and served in the Air Force Reserves at Lowry AFB. The couple had three children before they divorced. Richard remarried Mary Kreutzer and they welcomed one son, to the family.

Richard was an avid sportsman who enjoyed golf, tennis, and swimming. He indulged in his love for baseball throughout his life and, after retirement, worked for the Colorado Rockies as an usher (well, really a bouncer as he guarded the entrance to the open-air restaurant).

Richard was preceded in death by his wife, Mary P. Kreutzer, and his brother Louis George Kreutzer, Jr.

Richard is survived by his daughters, Anne Hebert (Steve), Ellen Kerkhoff (Todd), and sons, Edward Kreutzer (Stephanie), and William Kreutzer (Bridget). He is also survived by his stepson, Brett Scott (Leena), his nephew and niece, six grandchildren and two great grandchildren also mourn his passing along with many former colleagues and friends.

A Celebration of Life service will be held January 14, 2023 at Shepherd of the Hills Presbyterian Church at 11:00 am. A light luncheon will follow in the Fellowship Hall.

June 27, 1957 – September 13, 2022

Kurt is the youngest child of Gerald and Lucille Brinkhaus. He was 65 years old when he passed away in poor health, peacefully at his Lakewood home.

Kurt is best remembered for his heart of gold and jokes. He worked at King Soopers from 1977 to 1999, mostly at the Florida and Kipling store. He was a popular checker, very seldom would someone leave his line without a big smile. Schools requested him to do store tours with the children. Kurt was very good at winding the kids up and getting them excited about the grocery store business. After King Soopers he worked at various jobs before finishing up his employment career by being an in-house caretaker for his father. Kurt is survived by his siblings Andrea, Greg, also nephews, and niece. We are going to miss his presence, and jokes. Kurt may YOU, along with “All the angels and saints watch over us and keep us safe.”

Kurt’s wish was to hold no services for him. Therefore, no services are planned at this time. He will be buried Mount Olivet Catholic Cemetery.

October 6, 1955 – September 11, 2022

Patricia Ann Bishop was born in Denver, Colorado, to the late Fidencio and Gloria Martinez. Patty died peacefully at the age of 66, in her home in Arvada, Colorado, surrounded by her family. Wife of Michael Bishop; Beloved mother of Marcelino Chavez and Erica Gallegos. Beloved grandma to Elio, Neveah, Justina, Orlando, Lalana, Gloria, and Za´Niyah. Loving sister to Andy (Josie), Linda (Kelly), David, Rita (Armando), and Paul and loving aunt to numerous nieces and nephews.

Patty loved her grand kids, Elvis Presley, Motown music, and her dogs. She will be deeply missed for the love and kindness she gave to her family and friends.

October 24, 1933 – September 8, 2022

Jim passed away unexpectedly Sept. 8, 2022. Forty-six days shy of his 89th Birthday. He said he hoped to pass away outdoors, with his work boots on. God was listening, and granted his request… Jim passed away peacefully resting in a chair in the shade of a tree in his Daughters backyard, his loyal companion Tate by his side.

Jim was preceded in death by his beloved Wife Joanne, Parents John Morgan, and Orthy (Mae) Barnett Flynn, five Brothers and Sisters, and his Son-in-Law, Russ Critchfield.

Jim was born in 1933, and grew up on a farm in rural Greenville County, South Carolina.

After graduating from Jordan High School (’51), Jim enlisted in the U.S. Navy. Stationed in San Diego California, he met and married the love of his life Joanne Suitts. They were united for 54 years.

Jim and Joanne moved their young family to Shaw Heights, Colorado in 1963.

Jim spent most of his working life in the residential construction business, owning his own successful Framing Company.

Jim was a dedicated, good-humored, big-hearted family man, very skilled, and a very hard worker. Many learned a very strong work ethic from him..

Numerous residents in and around the Denver Metro area continue to benefit from Jim’s construction skills, dedication and talent. Anyone who met Jim, was enriched.

Jim is survived by His Son and Daughter, 3 Grandsons and their better halves, Great Granddaughter, Nieces, Nephews, and Tate (Choc. Lab).

After a Family Celebration of Life. Jim’s Cremains will be interred with 36 of his Family loved ones in the Mount Lebanon Baptist Church Cemetery, Greer, South Carolina.

Love you Papa …

November 15, 1951 – September 6, 2022

Thomas (Tom) Edward Vandermee was born November 15, 1951 and passed away September 6, 2022 at

Lutheran Hospice Center in Wheatridge, Colorado with his wife, daughter, and son-in-law by his side. He

is preceded in death by his beloved son Tommy, his parents Ed and Barbara Jean Vandermee, and his in-

laws James and Berdean Burden. He is survived by his wife Mary, daughter Deana, son-in-law Mike,

grandsons TJ and Kristopher, dogs Bella and Duke, and several other family members.

Tom was born in Pueblo, Colorado, and grew up in the Englewood, CO area. He graduated from

Sheridan High School in 1969. He was married to Mary in September 1971, and welcomed twins (Deana

and Tommy) in August 1972. In 1973, he joined the Englewood Police Department as a cadet. He spent

38 years with Englewood Police, and retired as Chief of Police in May of 2011. After retirement, he

enjoyed traveling with his wife, golfing, rooting on his Denver Broncos, and spending time with family

and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday 9/17/2022 from 1:00pm-4:00pm at Apex Community

Recreation Center, 6842 Wadsworth Blvd, Arvada, CO 80003. The Englewood Honor Guard will present

at 1:30pm, followed by a prayer and Eulogy. Light snacks will be served. The family is requesting those

attending dress in casual attire as that is what Tom would want.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made to the Concerns of Police Survivors –

Colorado Chapter at https://www.coloradocops.org/colorado-cops/support-us. This organization helps

families after line of duty death or suicide with counseling and financial support.