Richard Warren Rose

Richard Warren Rose, 4th child of John G. and Marie K. (Venemann) Rose, was born at home on May 4, 1924 in Denver, Colorado. With the exception of three years, he lived in the same family home until his death December 24, 2012. He attended Stevens Elementary, Gove Junior High, and East High School. He spent summers on his sister’s ranch in Oak Creek, Colorado, and was a ranch hand in Steamboat Springs before being drafted into the US Army in 1944. He was recognized as a marksman and assigned as a Forward Observer and Field Lineman in Germany, Luxembourg, and the Ardennes (Battle of the Bulge). Returning from war in May, 1946, he proposed to his sweetheart, June Cole, who had started writing letters to him when she was fifteen years old. They married on July 8, 1947, and celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary last summer. As newlyweds, he was a journeyman leatherworker at Herman H. Heiser Saddlery Company, where his artistic talent was recognized. Though they had all been named John before they were born, he was blessed with three daughters, Karen, Sally, and Charlene. Sons they weren’t, but treasures they were and he fiercely protected them.

He started in the carpentry business in the early 1950’s with Bob Townsend, his fishing and hunting buddy. They were like brothers ever since the day 7-year-old Rich sold Bob a City Park duck for a dime. His love of the outdoors included fishing, hunting, camping, traveling to Alaska, and family trips in the motor home. He instilled the love of camping in his daughters, grandkids and great grands. They loved roasting marshmallows over the campfire for s’mores. He also taught anyone how to hook a worm if they wanted to learn to fish. He enjoyed working with his hands and was known for his creative work with leather stamping, sand painting, and feather creations. He was known to have played a mean mandolin with the Cherry Creek Ramblers back in the day. Although he was soft spoken, everyone who met him--including all his nurses--was touched by his kindness, humor and quick wink of his eye. He remained steadfast in his love and loyalty to family and lifelong friends.

Richard was predeceased by his parents, and siblings Jennie Mae Male, Helen Smith, and Charles Rose. He is survived by his wife, June Cole Rose, 3 daughters, 7 grandchildren and 11 greatgrandchildren.

He’ll be truly missed. Karen Young and husband David, and their 3 daughters Darcy Doney and husband Justin, and their children Chantel and Weston. Bonnie Shaffer and husband Shanon, and their children Aubrey and Tyler. Laura Young. Sally Rose and her son Kiley Brothers. Charlene Minor and her 3 daughters Michelle Falconer and husband Walter, and their children Hunter, Bryson, Ryan, and Devin.

Amy Williams and husband Robert, and their children Navana, Nadia, and Naomi. Kelly Minor.