Richard "Dick" Lee Gladfelter aka Rolo the Clown

Richard “Dick” Lee Gladfelter, 88, of Colorado Springs, CO, passed away peacefully at home on May 11, 2026. He was born on November 29, 1937, in Galesburg, IL, and lived a life full of service, laughter, unwavering generosity, and love.

Not just any love — Richard learned to lean into one of God’s greatest gifts: Agape Love, a selfless, unconditional, sacrificial, and universal love that shaped the way he lived and the way he gave.

Known to many as Rolo the Clown, Richard was truly one of a kind — a man who wore many hats and wore them all with joy. He was a devoted husband, a wonderful and funny father, a loyal friend, and a man whose presence could fill a room with warmth.

Richard proudly served 24 years in the United States Army as a Ranger, retiring with the rank of Major. His discipline, grit, and sense of duty shaped the way he lived long after his military career ended.

To his children, he will forever be remembered as the clown — literally. Rolo the Clown drove a bright green VW van with his logo and phone number painted on the side, a sight that became legendary in the neighborhood. His sons remember the many cold mornings spent pushing that van to get it started, all so Dad could make it to cub scout meetings, birthday parties, Royal Gorge events, or Santa Claus commitments. Bringing smiles, balloons, and magic to children across Colorado Springs wasn’t just a job for him — it was a calling.

Richard’s desire to serve extended far beyond his clown shoes. He was a dedicated member of the Franciscan Order in Colorado Springs, where he found deep purpose in giving back. He offered rides, delivered communion to those unable to attend church, and showed up wherever he was needed. His generosity and time were joyful, steady, and sincere.

In his later years, after losing both legs due to complications from Agent Orange exposure, Richard found himself on the receiving end of the same compassion he had spent a lifetime giving. His family, his Franciscan community, and the exceptional team at Abode Hospice surrounded him with care, dignity, and love.

Though the community knew him for his service, his wife Sue, his children, and his grandchildren loved him most for his jovial spirit. He had more grit and perseverance than most, but even more remarkable was his ability to smile through hardship and offer humor in the moments that needed it most. Raising ten children required strength, patience, a good sense of humor, and love — all of which he had in abundance.

Richard — Dad, Rolo, Dick — lived life to the fullest: cheerfully, without complaint, and always with the intention of making someone else’s day a little brighter. To those left behind, he would say, “Agape, Agape, Agape!” Go in love. He will be deeply, dearly missed.

Richard was preceded in death by his sons Richard “Ricky” and Mark Gladfelter. He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Sudchai “Sue” Gladfelter; his brother Hank “Pete” Galmish; his children Sandra (Scott) Herbenson, John “Mike” Gladfelter, James “Jimbo” Gladfelter, Patrick Gladfelter, Bridgette (Dan) Korinek, Timmy Gladfelter, Kitten (Shan) DuPreez, and Petra Rangel; and many wonderful grandchildren and great grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to Give Fund: Sacred Heart Church, SubFund: Food Pantry