Ian Stewart McIntyre

March 23, 1971 – October 8, 2026

Ian Stewart McIntyre, 55, passed away peacefully at home on October 8, 2026.

Born in Ann Arbor, Michigan, Ian moved with his family to Denver at the age of two. He graduated from Colorado Academy and earned his undergraduate degree from Colorado State University before going on to complete his MBA at the University of Denver in 2013.

In 2007, Ian met the love of his life, Meaghan O’Brien. They were married in September 2009, beginning a true partnership built on love, laughter, and shared adventures. Together, Ian and Meaghan were an extraordinary team, tackling countless projects side by side.

Ian was a true man of many parts: a mountaineer, musician, history buff, home chef, loving husband, entrepreneurial idea man, and devout lover of the outdoors. Blessed with a sharp intellect, an endless curiosity, and a natural ability to solve problems, Ian had a lifelong fascination with how things worked. Fresh out of college, his first job involved taking computers apart piece by piece and rebuilding them—a passion for building that extended to every corner of his life. Whether he was assembling a Murphy bed, tackling a house build with friends, or taking apart a broken refrigerator just to figure out how to put it back together, Ian found immense satisfaction in making things better and simplifying life for those around him.

An eternal optimist, Ian had a zest for life that was truly contagious. He loved being around people and cared for those in his circle like family. He possessed a quick wit, a legendary sense of humor, and an extraordinary sense of timing. A true connector, he delighted in late-night philosophical debates, trading ideas with friends until two or three in the morning, always leaving the table closer than when they sat down.

While at CSU, after deciding that learning Gaelic was far too difficult, Ian ambitiously taught himself to play the bagpipes—reasoning that they had to be easier. That decision sparked a lifelong musical journey. He became a member of the Michael Collins Band and later co-founded The Mile High Highlanders, playing with them for over 20 years. A staple in the Denver community, the tight-knit band brought immense joy to countless St. Patrick’s Day parties, weddings, funerals, and birthdays. Blessed with an incredible ear for music, Ian served as the official tuner for the band, and he rarely traveled without his pipes, bringing solo performances to events across the country.

Ian lived life with a mischievous twinkle in his eye and a warm, knowing smile that signaled an adventure was about to begin. He was a chaser of sunrises and sunsets who embraced every day with passion, honesty, and unwavering loyalty. In the kitchen, he cooked entirely from the heart, expertly balancing spices and mixing flavors without ever needing a written recipe—cheerfully tapping his head to remind everyone that it was all stored "up there."

Ian was predeceased by his mother, Anne Legrand. He is survived by his beloved wife, Meaghan; father, Dr. Donald O. McIntyre; stepmother, Carleen McIntyre; sister, Becky Hauck(Tom); brother Don McIntyre, niece and nephews; Abby Hauck, Nick Hauck, Zack Hauck, Afton McIntyre; numerous dear friends and last but not least, Suna.

Ian’s light will forever shine in the hearts of those who knew him, and his secret to living well—through humor, kindness and music across the ages—will never be forgotten.

A service to celebrate Ian’s life will be held from 12:00 to 2:00 PM on Wednesday, December 2, 2026, at the Denver Elks Lodge, 2475 W 26th Ave, Denver, CO 80211. All are welcome- we look forward to sharing your memories and celebrating the incredible life of a loyal friend, talented musician, and unforgettable man.

Ian and Meaghan valued helping others in the Denver area. Should you desire, contributions may be made to the Food Bank of the Rockies.