Richard Lee Gero Jr.

Richard, “Richie Rich”, was born in Ft. Collins, CO, grew up in the surrounding Denver area, and located to Grand Junction in 2008 to be close to his family. He was the beloved son of Richard Gero Sr and Barbara Mitchell, loving brother of Julie LeClaire, and adored uncle to Sabrina Drake and Shelby Deutsch. He was loved, supported, and continually encouraged by his family and friends throughout his life as he struggled with mental illness and substance abuse.

As a young child he enjoyed playing soccer and was a talented drummer. As a young adult, he learned piano refinishing taught to him professionally by his uncle in Virginia and took pride in his ability to have acquired this skill. As an adult, he was proficient at auto detailing and lawn care. He was a perfectionist at everything he did, whether for himself or for others; this included his artistic ability. He loved to draw, especially perspective and detailed lines with symmetry and geometric design.

Throughout his life he loved attending car races in Denver and following NASCAR races with his dad, as well as rafting trips, visiting Arches National Park, accompanying dad on walks, and watching football.

He delighted in taking extended trips with his mom like Adventure Park in Glenwood Springs and Pikes Peak in Colorado Springs; also, bicycle rides, hiking the monument trails, camping trips, visiting thrift stores, going out to lunch, and helping with family yard sales.

Hobbies included building model cars and collecting diecast model cars. He had a good eye for photography and enjoyed snapping photos on Main Street and Colorado National Monument. He loved rock and roll, cats, games, and spending time with family. He was service focused, deeply caring, fun-loving, simple, and creative. Once he moved to Grand Junction, a 49cc scooter became his mode of transportation and fun-filled days of scootering around the Valley.

Richard was a recent member of Landmark Baptist Church and was actively involved in their RU Program. He cycled throughout his life through sobriety and relapse, which ultimately took his life. He will live on in the hearts of all those he touched with his kind, gentle, loving nature and a smile that would instantly melt your heart. He leaves behind a legacy of “pure love”. Freedom called and he now resides in the light of God and the eternal arms of Jesus.

There will be a Celebration of Life Memorial on Friday, May 30th, 7:00pm at Long Family Memorial Park, 3117 F Rd., Grand Junction, CO, Mt. Garfield Shelter located at the NW corner of the park by the pond where there will be a floating tea light freedom release at sunset.