Gerald Lee Woodyard

It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Gerald L. Woodyard who passed away at his home in Eastlake, Co. on Friday, April 23, 2021 at the age of 91. He was born April 14, 1930 in Riley, KS, the son of David Woodyard and Grace (Lee) Woodyard.

He married the love of his life Laura Heckard on July 13, 1950 and they settled in Eastlake, Co. where they raised their three children. They were married for 49 years and in 1999 Laura passed away.

Following his marriage, he served with the U.S. Army overseas in Korea on Heartbreak Ridge from 1951 – 1953 and was awarded a “Double Cluster Bronze Star”, Combat Infantry Badge and one overseas bar.

He was a life member of the VFW Post 7945 and a dedicated volunteer for Northern Lights Little League.

He is survived by his three children, son Steve L. Woodyard of Torrington, WY, daughter Cathy L. Suchey of Thornton, CO and daughter Christy L. Murrone of Thornton, CO. Six Grandchildren, Spencer (Misty) of Rockwall, TX, Dan (Julie) of Thornton, CO, David (Carrissa) of Denver, CO, Jennifer (Dwayne) of Brighton, CO, Jessica (Bruce) of Westminster, CO and Carla (Josh) of Westminster, CO. Fourteen Great Grandchildren, Teal, Karl, Kelsay, Nevaeh, Spencer Jr, Johnathon, Teagan, Tyler, Brayden, Ashlynn, Adonis, Matthias, Davian, Mickaiella. Step mother, Erna Woodyard. Siblings, sister Linda Norris of Wymore, NE, sister Pam Menke of Beatrice, NE and brother Mike Woodyard of Hayes, KS and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father David Woodyard, mother Grace Valentine and step dad Ray Valentine, his loving wife Laura, brother’s John Woodyard and Dwight Valentine, son-in-law Gregg Suchey and daughter-in-law Donna Woodyard.

Gerald was one of the kindest and most caring person you could ever meet. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. His family was the most important part of his life. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all who knew him.

A viewing will be held on Thursday, May 6th, 2021 at Olinger Highland Mortuary, 10201 Grant St. Thornton, CO 80229 from 5pm - 7 pm. The Funeral Service will be held Friday, May 7th 2021 at Olinger Highland Mortuary 10201 Grant St. Thornton, CO 80229 at 1:00 pm with graveside service to follow.

In lieu of flowers you can donate to the VFW Post 7945, 10217 Quivas St. Thornton, CO 80260 or Northern Lights Little League P.O. Box 201 Eastlake, CO 80614

The family would like to thank all the Doctors and Nurses at the Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center, Rocky Mt. Cancer Center Dr. Browning and staff, and all the Doctors, Nurses and staff at TRU Community Care for taking such great care of Gerald.

ALWAYS LOVED-FOREVER MISSED-NEVER FORGOTTEN