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Richard Read Obituary

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Richard J. Read
August 22, 2024

Richard J. Read passed peacefully in the loving arms of his family after a short illness. Richard was a proud Colorado Springs native, born in 1938. His earliest years were spent on both coasts while his father, Willis, filled a position with the government in Washington DC and later with the US Navy in San Diego. Richard and his beloved mother, Maxine, returned to Colorado Springs when his father deployed for WWII. A graduate of Colorado Springs High School, Richard attended Pueblo Junior College before attaining his bachelor's degree in business from the University of Northern Colorado. He went on to complete graduate studies in banking at the University of Wisconsin in Madison and Rutger's University in Newark, NJ.
Richard enjoyed a 35-year banking career, beginning as a night janitor at First National Bank of Greeley while he put himself through college. Upon graduating, he began a ten-year employment at the same bank, steadily rising up the ranks, then moved his family back to his beloved hometown for his long-term position at First National Bank of Colorado Springs, where he was to become Senior Vice President. He was a proud member of the Air National Guard, the American Banking Institute Executive Council, and recipient of the National Junior Achievement Gold Leadership Award in honor of his many years of service. Upon retirement, Rich joined his wife Kathryn for another 28-year adventure as partners at Holly Berry House in Old Colorado City and the annual Holly Berry House Folk Art Festival fundraiser for Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site. Together they traveled throughout the US and UK for dozens of hobby industry trade shows with Kathryn's artwork, enjoying many sights along the way.
Rich was widely respected as a one-of-a-kind gentleman of enormous grace and generosity. A strong but quiet man, he was admired for his big compassionate heart, extraordinary kindness, unwavering integrity, deep earnestness, and a steadfast devotion to family. He loved great music, classic cars, travel adventures, cheering on the Denver Broncos as a 52-year season ticket holder, and, above all, spending time with his family, who all adored him.
Richard's life was immeasurably enriched by Kathryn, his wife of 60 years; his children, son Christopher (Jennifer), daughter Shelley (Erik), and son Scott, who preceded him in death; his grandchildren, Avery and Owen; brothers David (Judy) of Pueblo, CO, and Gary (Laurie) of Los Alamos, NM; and a wide circle of devoted family, friends, and business associates.
Richard's life will be celebrated with a private memorial service. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Rich's honor to the Adaptive Sports Center in Crested Butte at www.adaptivesports.org

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Gazette on Sep. 21, 2024.

Memories and Condolences
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6 Entries

Engla Pickett

October 12, 2024

Richard Read was a Real Gentleman, he was noble, honorable, and kind with strong integrity. He had a very funny sense of humor which was quite endearing, you couldn't help but like and respect him. He was a Great Friend, Kindly Employer and Excellent Person. He will be painfully missed by all who knew him. I feel deep sympathy pains for his devoted family, this is a super difficult thing to go through, they need everyone's support. God Bless and Help Kathryn and her dear family in this painful time.

Helen Jane Showers

October 3, 2024

I knew Rich when he & Kathy were to be married & I stood up as maid of honor for them. He was the kindest gentleman & more. He spent his vacation driving to Texas to move my two daughters & I to Colorado Springs in 1981. He was a great truck driver, a great advisor, a great boss at the bank & a great boss at HBH for 22 yrs. And he was a great tour guide all across the USA. He always made sure we ate at nice restaurants & stayed at nice motels during our craft shows. He loved his wife & children & cared for us as if we were his own. He wii be so missed by all who knew him. RIP RICH! Helen Jane, Kristen Showers & Stephanie & son, Jake Kline.

Sandy Micci

September 23, 2024

Our prayers are with Kathy and kids. Rich meant a lot to us and our careers. Sandy and Dave Micci

Tom hall

September 22, 2024

I really enjoyed my time with Rich. We climbed a mountain or two in Colorado together. And, of course, time with the family. Rich was really a kind guy, wish we could have done one more climb.

Carol Plummer

September 21, 2024

My sympathy is extended to all of the Read Family. May all of your
precious memories help to heal the heartache all of you are enduring.

Cec Springfield

September 20, 2024

I first met Rich when his wife, Kathy, had a group of ladies in for "crafting" at her home. Rich was a very kind and quiet man, but he always made one feel welcome. Upon arrival, he opened the door and said, "They are in the basement." He said, "I'm Rich, by the way, and I understand your husband was born and raised in Colorado Springs." He made conversation easily. I never once heard a bad word come out of his mouth about anyone or towards anyone.
The next time I remember seeing Rich was on the slopes of Crested Butte. I was scared to death as I hadn't skied before or if I had, I wasn't sure I could do it. But all of our friends were skiers, Rich included. I took a class during the morning hours, and after some much needed lunch, we all headed out to the ski slopes. Rich skied first and he was standing at the bottom of the slope close to a tree. I remember that my knees were flapping against one another as it was now my turn. What or how was I going to do this?! Knowing that Rich was waiting for me at the bottom was a great sense of relief. I started down the hill and I felt totally out of control but somehow I managed to ski right up to him. He was smiling and that comforted me. Rich was so genuine, so true to himself and I will miss his gentle and powerful soul! RIP Rich! Cec Springfield

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