Charlie was born in Wichita Falls, TX to Harold and Velma Craft on January 10, 1945. The middle of five children, Charlie grew up in Oklahoma before settling in Wheat Ridge, CO when he was ten. He was a graduate of Jefferson High School in 1962 and received professional degrees in BS and JD from the University of Colorado and LLM from the George Washington University. It was in college where he met the love of his life, Sandra “Sandy” Rice, whom he was married to for 54 years until the time of his death.
Upon graduation, he served in the U.S. Army JAG Corps as a Captain including a tour to South Korea. After his service, Charlie and Sandy resettled in Lakewood and later Genesee, CO. The couple had two sons: Eric and Scott. Charlie spent several years as an attorney practicing estate tax law prior to shifting into a career in real estate, which he loved. An avid outdoorsman, Charlie enjoyed every opportunity to canyoneer with his brothers, ski with his children, and hike with his wife. Over the years, the two of them even summitted 36 of Colorado’s 14’ers.
Later in life, Charlie continued to be an active member in the community. He was an avid member of the Jeffco Sertoma Organization, which stands for Service to Mankind. He always greatly looked forward to his biweekly meeting with his beloved ‘Loan Committee,’ a group of other Denver area real estate professionals with whom he collaborated for over 30 years. The group started as competitors who decided that they could amount to more together through collaboration than apart with competition. This group has since become some of his closest friends. Charlie also introduced his son, Scott, to the real estate business and taught him the ropes while he was in college. Upon Scott’s graduation, Charlie did everything he could to help Scott get his career in real estate started. Most importantly, Charlie adored his only granddaughter, who was the light of his life.
Charlie’s infectious smile and jovial nature brightened any room. Nobody ever felt like a stranger in his presence. He was a beloved friend, dedicated father, and devoted husband. He is survived by his wife Sandy; son, Eric and his husband, Joe; son, Scott and his wife, Salina; beloved granddaughter, Jaedyn; siblings, Paul, Harold, David, and Marilyn; and numerous extended family members and friends.
Due to the family's concern about rising health safety issues, Charlie's Celebration of Life has been delayed. Please check back to receive updates.
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In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the charity of your choice in memory of Charles Craft.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.CrownHillFuneral.com for the Craft family.
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