Thomas "Red" Richard Magee

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Thomas Richard Magee, affectionately known as Tom Magee, Red, and Grandpa. Tom peacefully departed this life at the age of 83 on Wednesday, November 15th, 2023.

Left behind his devoted wife of 63 years, Rose Magee, his children Diane and Dan, 9 grandchildren, and 6 great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his eldest son Dale, his parents Thomas and Lois, 2 brothers, and 3 sisters.

Born in Dunkerton, Iowa, Tom was the seventh of eight children born to Thomas F and Lois Fressle Magee. He attended junior college in Iowa Falls, Iowa.

Tom was a dedicated 55-year Mason member of the Egeria #167 Lodge of Yampa Co. and a 32-degree member of the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry Valley of Grand Junction Co for 51 years.

On October 23, 1960, Tom married Rose Knief, and they were blessed with three children: Dale (Dawn) of Parachute, Diane (John) of Highlands Ranch, and Dan (Krystal) of Rifle. After a hunting trip, Tom fell in love with Colorado and relocated to Durango in 1964.

Tom spent 28 years working for the Denver Rio Grande Railroad as a heavy equipment operator, taking him all throughout Colorado and Utah. Parachute became their home for over 52 years before relocating to Clifton in 1995. In the last two years, Tom resided at Aspen Ridge Memory Care.

Passionate about the mountains and his faith, Tom volunteered for 5 years at the Grand Mesa Christian Youth Camp, where he enjoyed mentoring the youth each summer. His love for fishing led him and Rose to spend many weeks at Lake Powell fishing and camping.

A proud and loving grandfather, Tom delighted in playing and teasing his 9 grandchildren, imparting his wisdom in fishing, camping, and various activities. He also became a cherished great-grandfather to 6 great-grandchildren.

Known as Uncle Red the prankster, Tom has numerous nieces and nephews across the country, whom he spoke of frequently.

Visitation will be held on Friday, November 24th, from 4:00-6:00 pm at Callahan-Edfast Mortuary & Crematory.

A celebration of Tom's life will occur on Saturday, November 25th, at 10 am at Cross Road United Methodist Church in Grand Junction, Colorado. Following the service, he will be laid to rest at Battlement Mesa Cemetery in Parachute. Though Tom will be greatly missed, his legacy of love and laughter will endure in our hearts forever.

Memorial contributions in his honor can be made to the Grand Mesa Christian Association Camp at 26269 Old Grand Mesa, Cedaredge, CO 81413.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.callahan-edfast.com for the Magee family.