Ryer Eugene Hitchcock

Born December 14, 1935, in Yonkers, New York, Ryer spent his early years in Concord, New Hampshire, before his family relocated to El Paso, Texas. After attending the University of New Hampshire, Ryer began his career in sales and sales management with a major bakery chain, which took him to Corpus Christi, Beaumont, Austin, and San Antonio, Texas.

In 1965, a family vacation and the opportunity to transfer with his company led Ryer to Colorado Springs, where he fell in love with the city’s outdoor lifestyle and strong sense of community. It was here that he built his home, career and legacy.

In 1970, Ryer transitioned to the financial sector, joining EF Hutton as an investment advisor. Though numerous mergers and company name changes he remained steadfast retiring after 46 years. He spent all but six of those years at Morgan Stanley Smith Barney and its predecessor firms. He proudly quipped that he had “never left his seat.”

Beyond his distinguished career, Ryer dedicated himself to the growth and success of Colorado Springs, serving in numerous civic and nonprofit organizations:

• Life Member and Past President – Colorado Springs Chamber of Commerce

• Past Master – Tejon Lodge #104 AF & AM

• Past President – Goodwill Industries of Colorado Springs

• Past President – Pikes Peak Range Riders (33 rides completed)

• Past President – Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo

• Trustee – Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame

• Past President – Pikes Peak Y/USO

• Member of the original committee that brought the US Olympic Training Center to Colorado Springs

• AdAmAn Club Member – 25 Winter Climbs of Pikes Peak

• Member – Colorado Thirty Group

• Past Chairman – Chamber’s Military Affairs Council

• Member – Wilson United Methodist Church

Among his many accolades, Ryer was honored with:

• 1984 – Colorado Springs Chamber of Commerce Business Person of the Year

• 1985 – Fort Carson Good Neighbor Award

• 1995 – Department of the Army Outstanding Civilian Service Medal

• 1998 – Woodgate Award, Pikes Peak YMCA

• 1999 – Spencer Penrose Award, Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo

• 2000 – John Justin Standard of the West Award

• 2001 – Jasper D. Ackerman Award

Ryer’s lifelong motto was: “Living in Colorado Springs is not a spectator sport.” His passion for service, adventure, and leadership was felt throughout the community he so deeply loved.

Ryer is survived by his loving wife, Victoria Hitchcock, his son Edward Ryer Hitchcock (Alesia) of Boise, ID, and his cherished grandchildren Karen, Brian, Sean, and Jennifer. He was preceded in death by his son, Robert William Hitchcock, his brother, Edward B. Hitchcock and his sister Brenda Souza.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Ryer’s honor to:

• YMCA of the Pikes Peak Region

• Goodwill of Colorado Springs