Gary James Kreutzer

Gary James Kreutzer

Gary lived a life that was defined by hard work, generosity, exploration, friendship, and a love for family. As a lifelong resident of Brighton, Colorado, he touched countless lives through his kindness and willingness to lend a helping hand.

Gary was born in Brighton, Colorado to Melvin Kreutzer and Shirley Reiva on November 8, 1955, and was the oldest of five children. Gary lived his entire life in Brighton, CO, persevering through difficulty at a young age with the death of Melvin when he was 16. He graduated from Brighton High School with the class of 1974. In his teens and early 20’s, Gary worked at Gaylors grocery store followed briefly by Pepsi-Co. On March 6, 1977, he married Sherry (Seltzer) Kreutzer, and together they welcomed their two children Nicole and Cory. During this time, he also started his lifelong career at Xcel Energy (Public Service) working as a pipe fitter and then foreman. It was during this time that Gary established his love for travel, being outdoors, sports, and spending time with friends and loved ones. He enjoyed camping, woodworking, gardening, trips to Lake Powell and the Virgin Islands, bowling, raising his children, and spending time with friends whenever he could. He also established himself as a master of fixing anything and everything that needed repair for himself, friends, and family.

As Gary approached retirement, a new chapter in his life began to unfold. He found a passion for golf and became president of the Coyote Creek Men’s Golf Association, and was president of the league for 20 years, growing the program significantly and broadening his already wide friend group even further. In 2017, Gary retired from his career at Xcel Energy. On June 9, 2018 he married Nancy Kjarum, and the two remained inseparable thereafter. Nancy and Gary continued to enjoy all the things Gary already loved – most notably traveling, golfing, and spending time with their large network of friends and family. Throughout their years together, Nancy's unwavering love, support, and companionship were a constant source of strength and comfort to Gary.

Gary’s passion for life and his kindness was present throughout every facet of his life. He did this by sharing his ever-expanding list of hobbies with friends and family, following in his mother’s footsteps of always having an open door, and pouring time into making the world around him better.       

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Melvin Kreutzer and Shirley Reiva. He is survived by his wife, Nancy Kreutzer; Gary's daughter, Nicole Bauer (Brian) and their children, Rex and Quinn; Gary's son, Cory Kreutzer (Kristy) and their children, Mason and Hazel; Nancy's daughter, Darcy Hendricks (Brent) and their children, Lillie and Elise; Nancy's daughter, Dara Flowers (Cliff) and their children, Carson and Cooper; and Gary's siblings, Don Kreutzer, Ken Kreutzer (Judy), Dominick Kreutzer (Anita), and Carol Haman (Phil).

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