Sheldon Leroy Kortgaard

Sheldon Leroy Kortgaard (Shelly), age 77, of Mead, Colorado passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his loving and caring family. Sheldon was born May 10, 1944, in Bottineau, North Dakota to the late Melvin and Minda Kortgaard. Sheldon was raised on the family farm where he developed a strong work ethic. He graduated from Northwest School of Agriculture in Crookston, Minnesota Class of 1962. Sheldon joined the army and served our country with great pride while being deployed to Vietnam in 1965.

On October 13, 1967, Sheldon married his dear Nora Nelson. For 17 years, Sheldon and Nora raised their children in Northwood and Belfield, North Dakota; until they moved to Firestone, Colorado where they made their permanent home in 1984.

Sheldon loved to hunt, fish, camp, and enjoy the great outdoors with his family and friends. He was so proud and showed the biggest smile when driving his camper and pontoon boat. His top priority was finding the best lake and the best campsite near the water. The many dogs he had throughout his life loved him the most as he spoiled them with treats.

Sheldon was a friend to everyone with his big smile and a “howdy, how are you doing?”. As a long-distance truck driver Sheldon met many people, he always showed kindness and generosity. While driving for Walmart he met some great friends. These friends shared the love of camping and fishing also. There were several nights of sitting around the campfire while laughing and having a cold beer. Even after retirement in 2014, every week these buddies shared a cup of coffee, lunch, and a piece of pie. The world will surely miss Sheldon.

Sheldon is survived by his loving wife, Nora of 54 years. His devoted children: Son Brandon Kortgaard (Jamie), Daughter Kristina Kortgaard, his grandchildren; Aspien Montano (Joseph), Trystin Montano (Mia), Erica Schmit, Jordan Kortgaard, Paris Kortgaard, and his Great Grandsons; Kruz Mcloud and Santino Montano. His sister, Sharon Tupa (Paul), and several nieces and nephews. Sheldon is proceeded in death by his parents; Minda and Melvin Kortgaard, his sister, Marlys Durkin and his brother Donnie Kortgaard.

Sheldon’s legacy will live on through the many lives he has touched by his actions, words, good deeds, and most important his love. Sheldon was a devoted, wonderful, and an amazing husband, father, and grandfather. He will truly be missed.

Visitation will be Thursday, December 2, 2021 from 4pm until 7pm at Howe Mortuary. Funeral services will be 11am, Friday December 3, also at the mortuary. Sheldon will be interred at Ft. Logan National Cemetery on Monday, December 6 at 2:15pm.