Richard Edward Pelletier

Richard E. Pelletier, 70, of Mead, CO, passed away on March 9, 2023. He died suddenly at home, with his beloved wife, Elaine, by his side. He will be remembered as larger-than-life, kind, generous, faithful, and steadfast.

Rich was born the youngest of three children on May 6, 1952, to Albert and Gilda Pelletier in Salem, Massachusetts. He graduated from Salem High School in 1971. Soon after, Rich married his beautiful bride, Elaine Darisse on November 28, 1971. Richard and Elaine went on to have 4 wonderful children, Richard Albert, Ami, Eric, and Renda.

In 1978, Rich packed up his family and headed west to Colorado. Alongside his brother, Ron, he started SNS Iron Works with one welding truck and a whole lot of grit. With much hard work, determination, and his unforgettable personality, he built a legacy in the steel erection industry. No matter how big or small, Rich loved to close the deal. He will be remembered as a successful businessman, and one who truly loved the work. He remained passionate about business his entire life, proudly mentoring his children and others along the way. Seeing others succeed brought him much joy. Rich loved his ironworking family.

Anyone that met Rich, regardless of how brief the encounter, remembered him. He had a way of putting people at ease, due in large part to his ability to listen. Rich knew the importance of human connection and stayed in touch with many people, frequently calling to check on them and offer words of support or just shoot the breeze. He had friends all over the country, from his childhood, to Colorado, to Florida and beyond. At each stage of his life, he maintained his friendships. Even through Rich’s many health struggles over the years, he was more focused on others, truly his brothers’ keeper.

There is no greater example of this than Rich’s devotion to his wife. He and Elaine recently celebrated 51 years of marriage. Rich loved Elaine with all his heart and their love never wavered. They always made time for each other, laughing, telling stories, and just being together. Their marriage is a testament to true love and an example for their children and grandchildren.

The pride Rich had in his four children was immeasurable. He loved them deeply, as well as their spouses, whom he treated as his own. Rich had no greater joy than his ten grandchildren. He loved them each for who they were and took time to get to know their unique personalities and interests. He took pride in attending their games, performances, and activities. Rich cherished the role of Pepere, and his legacy lives on in each of them.

Richard is preceded in death by his father Albert, whom he lost at the age of 17, his mother Gilda, his brother Ronald, and his sister Cheryl. He is survived by his wife Elaine, his four children, and ten grandchildren: Madison, Richard Joseph (R.J.), Darisse, Kailey, Makena, Brody, Carter, Alexa, Eli, and Anderson. He will be missed dearly by all who knew him.

Relatives and friends are invited to:

Viewing: Fri., March 17, 2023, 3:00-6:00pm at Olinger Highland Funeral Home in Thornton, CO

Rosary and Funeral Mass: Mon., March 20, 2023, 10:15am and 11:00am respectively at Guardian Angels Catholic Church in Mead, CO

Reception: Mon., March 20, 2023, 1:00-5:00pm at TPC Golf Course, in Berthoud, CO

Interment Service: Wed., March 22, 2023, 3:30pm at Olinger Funeral Home in Thornton, CO

If you would like to donate in lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Fisher House Foundation. A link to the Fisher House Foundation donations page may be found below: