Gerald Walter Salden

He was born to parents Norman and Cleo Salden, on March 13, 1937, in Minneapolis, MN. Jerry graduated from Bloomington High School and enlisted in the US Navy where he served both on land and at sea. After his service, he completed his apprenticeship in the heating and air conditioning trade.

He married Diane Marie Hecker, his love of 61 years, in 1960. Jerry moved his family to Colorado in 1969 where he spent his career working on notable projects such as the Eisenhower and Johnson tunnels, Denver International Airport and many downtown Denver office buildings. Upon retirement in 1998, Jerry and Diane enjoyed the RV life, traveling across the country for seven years before returning to Colorado.

Known for his love of family, you could easily find Jerry involved in a game of cards or dice and probably winning….he was so lucky! He also had a great sense of humor, gave great hugs and kisses, and was full of determination. He was involved with the Knights of Columbus for many years and held several positions at the local and state level. Jerry’s hobbies included golf and woodworking, and he was an avid fan of the Colorado Avalanche and the Colorado Rockies. He had a love of the mountains and made frequent visits to Rocky Mountain National Park.

Along with his wife Diane, Jerry is survived by his four daughters Chris Martin, Denise (Dave) Pfnister, Sue (Dave) Provan and Lisa (Cal) Olinger, as well as nine grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents Norman and Cleo Salden, his brother James Salden, and his son-in-law Jay Martin.

A private family celebration of Jerry’s life will be held at a later date. The family requests, in lieu of flowers, that you please consider donating to the American Cancer Society.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.howemortuary.com for the Salden family.