Ron Day

Ron was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 57 years, Marjorie Ann (Hicks) Day. Above all, Ron cherished his family and the generations that grew from the life he and Margie built together.

He is survived by their four children: Nancy Jean (Day) Singer, Steven James Day, Julie Ann (Day) Forney, and Kathleen Sue (Day) McHugh; 11 grandchildren; and 19 great-grandchildren.

Ron was born in Beloit, Kansas, on July 28, 1934. When he was 12 years old, his family sold their farm in Kansas and moved to Fort Collins, Colorado.

During high school, Ron discovered wrestling after a teacher encouraged him to take up the sport. His talent and determination carried him to an outstanding collegiate wrestling career at Colorado A&M, now Colorado State University (CSU). A champion wrestler, (fifth, third, and second in the NCAA championship), Ron was inducted into the CSU Sports Hall of Fame for his achievements. Remarkably, he was never pinned throughout his wrestling career. While competing, he also earned a degree in civil engineering.

Ron served in the Colorado Army Reserve, where he was selected as a captain. He began his professional career with Shell Oil Company’s Chemical Division before moving into sales with Thompson Pipe and Steel Company. He later served as vice president of Sales and Marketing at Dana Kepner Company, where he concluded his business career.

Retirement gave Ron more time to enjoy one of his favorite pastimes: golf. He served as a marshal at Raccoon Creek Golf Course in Littleton and later at Red Hawk Ridge Golf Course in Castle Rock, where much of his compensation came in the form of golf privileges. He also enjoyed decades of watching Denver Broncos and Colorado Rockies games.

After his final retirement, Ron returned to Fort Collins and moved into Affinity Apartments, a 55-and-older community. He quickly became an active and familiar presence, enjoying the community garden, jigsaw puzzles, happy hours with friends, and the many activities that brought residents together.

Ron was especially known for making his famous peanut brittle and chocolate clusters, which he shared during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. He also loved the regularly scheduled pinochle games and earned quite a reputation as an excellent card player.

Ron will be remembered for his playfulness, laughter, determination, strength, and enduring faith. His competitive spirit, generous sharing of holiday treats, and enjoyment of friendship brought joy to those around him. He leaves behind a legacy of cherished memories for his family and all who knew and loved him.

No funeral service will be held at this time. A memorial and Celebration of Life will be scheduled at a later date, and details will be shared here when available.