Ray Dean Slife

Ray was born August 23rd, 1939 in Holyoke, Colorado to Elmer & Dosha Slife. He was the third son born of their four children, all of whom were born and raised in Colorado. He married Esther Brott in 1957, and they welcomed their four children: Terry, Shirley, Sandy and Randy shortly thereafter. He served in the army from 1961-1963. Ray was a hard-working dedicated man, who mastered any job he took on, especially being an electrician, a salesman and a truck driver. He was divorced in 2004. Ray married his current wife, Shirley Simmons, in 2006. He leaves behind his wife, 4 children, 1 bonus child through marriage, 15 grandchildren, 36 great grandchildren and 5 great-great grandchildren; all who love and miss him dearly. He passed away in Strasburg Colorado, May 12th, 2025.

Ray’s hobbies and interests helped define who he was and how he lived his life. He loved playing the accordion, spending time with his family and loved ones. He spent many weekends at the racetrack, racing or working on cars and especially “supervising” the pit crew and making sure everything was done “the right way”. He also loved boating, camping and riding his trike whenever he could find the time to do so.

We find peace and comfort in knowing Ray is now in the presence of our Heavenly Father, alongside his parents, siblings, friends and loved ones. His legacy will live on through the lessons he taught us, the love he shared and the memories we will cherish forever.

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, June 3rd at 11am at Olinger Crown Hill Mortuary & Cemetery at 7777 West 29th Ave in Wheatridge, Colorado, 80033. The burial will follow at Fort Logan National Cemetery at 4400 Kenyon Ave in Denver, Colorado, 80236.

Flowers can be sent to the Crown Hill Cemetery, but donations are also appreciated.