Robert "Bob" Fulton

Bob, as he was affectionately known, was born on January 29, 1940, in Kansas City, Kansas, to proud parents Anna Catherine (Ratkey) and Robert Leroy Fulton Sr. As an only child, he spent his youth with the neighborhood kids playing sports, fishing, and enjoying the freedom of a lively childhood. After Robert Sr. passed away when Bob was 8-years-old, his mom Ann went to work at TWA Airlines as a food preparer and daily care of Bob was taken over by his Grandma Ratkey. A turning point in Bob's life came when he discovered his love and talent for football and pole vaulting. As the years passed, Bob's talent and dedication as a running back earned him a place as a star football player at Pittsburg State University (Kansas). He forged a deep and enduring friendship with legendary Head Coach Carnie Smith that would shape the course of his life.

During his time at college, Bob crossed paths with the love of his life, Sharon Margaret Moore. Their connection was instant and profound and they were married on May 29, 1965. After graduating from Pitt State with a Master’s Degree in History, Bob and Sharon welcomed their first son, Robert (Rob), into the world. After Bob’s six years of teaching and coaching in Lawrence, and then Emporia, Kansas (where he earned an Outstanding Young Educator award), the family embarked on a new journey, moving to Fort Collins, Colorado in 1970. The family then grew with the addition of two more children, Melanie and Carnie, forming a tight-knit bond that would endure through the years.

Bob began a remarkable 30-year career dedicated to education, coaching football and track, and later counseling young students at Fort Collins High School (FCHS). As he poured his heart into teaching and mentoring, his impact on countless lives was immeasurable. Bob created a series of impactful programs at FCHS, including, but not limited to the Peer Counseling Program, Drug and Alcohol Counseling Program, Project Friend, Peer Tutoring Program, Poudre R-1 Outward Bound Program, and many more. He loved the staff and the kids that he would cross paths with at FCHS and across the District. He left a positive legacy of mentorship, friendship, accountability, and guidance. He also coached in various roles for their children and grandchildren.

In 1999, Bob officially retired from his teaching career at FCHS, but retirement couldn't slow him down. He remained an active and engaged member of his community. Bob was an active volunteer with McBackpack for many years. The organization provides supplemental food to students and families through area schools. He loved the mission of the organization and the comradery of the volunteer group. He surprised his wife Sharon by displaying an interest in chorale music and joined the senior community choir, the Silvertones. He was also ordained as a priest in the Community of Christ church and active in the congregation.

Bob poured his focus and energy into competing in National Masters Events in the Decathlon and Heptathlon. He won three Decathlon Masters Championships and one Heptathlon Championship. His other passion outside of athletics was fishing in beautiful Colorado. He became a member of the Red Feather Lakes fishing community and spent hours in his beloved belly boat, roaming his favorite spots and catching trout which he brought back to share with friends and family. Along the way, he brought his family and friends with him. During the winter, he took pride in tying various flies at home that would help land the big ones!

Bob's heart was a vast and loving one and he adored every moment spent with his family. He is survived by his wife, Sharon, their children Rob (Allyson) of Pennsylvania, Melanie Fronapfel (Eric), Carnie (Sarah) and their much-loved grandchildren Zachary (Christine), Alec, and Keenan Fronapfel of Colorado, and Austin and Addison Fulton of Pennsylvania. Their joy brought warmth and light to his life. He cherished every moment spent with his family and friends, weaving precious memories that will last a lifetime.

The void left by Bob's passing is immeasurable and the memories he leaves behind will forever be cherished. We unite in our grief to remember and honor this extraordinary man who touched so many lives in the community.

A Celebration of Bob's Life will be held at First United Methodist Church in Fort Collins on Saturday, November 11th, 2023 at 10:30am. A light reception will follow.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to either The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society or locally to McBackpack, Inc. Treasured memories of Bob and words of condolence for his family are welcome at www.resthavencolorado.com. Condolences may also be sent to Sharon Fulton in care of Resthaven Funeral Home.