Warren Egelhoff

Warren was born in Osceola, Nebraska, and was raised on a farm in eastern Colorado along with his three brothers and three sisters. The family moved to Denver as Warren entered the ninth grade, where he attended Smiley Junior High School. He graduated from East High School in 1945.

Church and the love of God was instilled in Warren from a young age by his mother, who was an organist for the church and a devout parishioner. Rural life revolved around the church, and it stayed with Warren throughout his life. He was a dedicated servant to the church, filling many roles within the congregation from serving on the board of Deacons to teaching children in Sunday school.

Warren was a proud veteran who served in the United States Army-Air Force from 1945 until his honorable discharge in 1950, He was stationed in Japan shortly after the end of World War Two, which was an experience he found deeply impactful and meaningful. His military experience, and the connections he made with his comrades during his service, stayed with him throughout his life, and Warren often re-counted them with family and friends.

Growing up without a father, family was of the up-most importance to Warren. He put the needs of his wife and family far above the needs of himself. He held his family dearly and he lovingly supported them throughout his entire life. He particularly enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, who all reveled in his presence.

Warren was a lifetime lover of music of all styles and genres. He began his career at B.K. Sweeney, a record distributor. There, he met the love of his life, Anita, to whom he remained married for 69 years. He later worked as a lighting salesman and consultant for Rite Lite (which became Cummins Lighting), where he was a loyal and trusted employee until his retirement in 1985.

Warren was a dedicated Boy Scout leader who delighted in helping develop the minds, character, and skills of young scouts. He held dear his service and memories during his long scouting career. He started as a local Webelos leader when his sons were young and continued serving during his retirement, including living in camp for two summers as camp director at Camp Colorado at Peaceful Valley. He served in the Scouting in School Program and other Boy Scout programs, and ultimately received the Silver Beaver award for exceptional character and distinguished service, an honor that meant so much to him.

Warren was a well-rounded man. He was a voracious reader. He was a builder and craftsman. He could fix absolutely anything, usually from materials he found lying around the house or garage. He was an artisan, who crafted stunning works of stained glass, and beautiful wood carvings usually made from little else than a stick he found in the yard, his imagination, and his ever-present pocketknife. He had a knack for always keeping his plants green and healthy, and he enjoyed tending his garden. He enjoyed the theater and particularly loved dancing with his wife. Warren was a man of keen and sharp wit and he saw humor in just about anything. Always the optimist, never did he say “I can’t. Instead, he always believed in his abilities to succeed.

Warren passed away in his home with loved ones by his side, having lived a full, happy, and meaningful life. He is survived by his wife, three children, eight grandchildren, and four great grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Green Mountain Presbyterian Church in Warren’s memory.