Christian Bettray

Christian Bettray passed away peacefully at his home in the foothills of Bellvue, Colorado, on April 6, 2016. His giving and passionate soul lives on in the countless lives he touched during his 42 years on Earth.

Christian loved animals of all kinds. Together with his wife, Nicole, Christian rescued six beloved dogs: Abby, Ceddie, Tucker, Maddie, Phoenix, and Lucas. He had a love and talent for nurturing all living things and grew many kinds of plants, flowers, and vegetables. He will be remembered for his kind and vibrant spirit by all who crossed his path.

Christian’s journey to Bellvue began in Metelen, Germany on May 16, 1973. He was born to Friedhelm and Elisabeth Bettray, along with his sister, Marion (Bettray) Jashke. After spending his youth in Germany and attending college at Carl-von-Ossietzky University, he ventured across the Atlantic Ocean to attend graduate school in the United States.

At the University of Wisconsin, LaCrosse, Christian met his soul mate, life partner, and best friend, Nicole Pledger (Bettray). The two moved back to Germany, and married on July 23, 2004, in Duisburg. Nicole and Christian then returned to the United States to make a life in Colorado.

Christian worked as a business and software consultant. In 2010, a job opportunity brought him to California, where he and Nicole lived for three years before returning to Colorado in December, 2013 to make their home in the Bellvue foothills.

Christian had a passion for running, even completing an endurance marathon despite severe health challenges. He also loved biking, both road and mountain. Christian is known by everyone who entered his home as a master host, cooking anything and everything with expertise and flair.

Christian had an exceptional talent for art and writing. He spent the last years of his life creating his memoir, Field of Flowers. Written in his second language, the book shows the depth of this gift and his love for all living things.

In lieu of flowers or plants, memorial donations can be made to two beloved animal rescues: Denkai Animal Sanctuary and Beagle Freedom Project.

“The journey leading high above the ocean to the very edge of our lives had finally ended and we had returned to a happy path. The field of flowers.” – Christian Bettray