Born in Bayfield, Colorado on April 19th, 1936, to Marjorie Leone (Campbell) and Myron Elbert Bigham, John was raised in a loving home where he learned the values of faith, family, and hard work. After graduating from Bayfield High School, he pursued his passion for agriculture at Colorado State University, earning a Bachelor of Agricultural Sciences degree (Go Aggies!).
John's career in agriculture and water spanned the State of Colorado. He began as an Extension Agent in Weld County, then worked in Barley Production at Coors as a Fieldsman in Delta. His journey continued with Agricultural Service roles in Delta, Fruita, and Grand Junction, followed by a position with Smith Chemical Company in Grand Junction. John later became the Manager of the Tri-County Conservancy in Uncompahgre County before settling in Loveland in 1980. He spent the remainder of his career as Agency Coordinator for the Northern Colorado Water Conservancy District, retiring in 1998. His deep love and passion for water led him to remain active in Colorado’s Water Congress.
John met Kay Kimber on a blind date in Fort Collins, Colorado, set up by Kay’s grandmother. It was love at first sight, and the couple married in Laporte, Colorado, in 1957. They shared a loving, devoted marriage until Kay’s passing in 2007. John never remarried, remaining faithful to her memory. Together, they raised three children: Melody, Kenneth, and Cheryl. John imparted his values and work ethic to his children, balancing a demanding career with a deep commitment to his family. Tragically, they lost Cheryl in 2002.
A man of unwavering integrity, John was honest, hardworking, and never idle. When his workday ended, he found more to do at home. A deeply spiritual man, John was devoted to living his faith daily. He was a long-time member of Resurrection Fellowship, having attended since 1982. Even when he could no longer drive, he continued to worship faithfully at home.
John will be dearly missed by his family and all who knew him. His legacy of love, faith, and dedication lives on in his daughter Melody Dunning (Tony) of Parker, and son Kenneth Bigham (Jenny) of Windsor. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Megan, Jillian (Joey), Carolyn, Rachel, and Jessica; his brother Mathew Bigham (Ronnie) of Dacono; ten great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. He was greeted in Heaven by his wife Kay Ruth Bigham; his daughter Cheryl Lynn Davis; his sister Myrna Mead and her husband Arthur; and his parents, Myron and Marjorie Bigham.
A celebration of John’s life was held on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at Allnutt Funeral Service – Hunter Chapel in Loveland. John will be laid to rest next to Kay in a private ceremony at Roselawn Cemetery in Fort Collins. John's family wishes to express their gratitude to all those who were able to attend and share their love and memories. John's memorial slideshow may be viewed here: https://vimeo.com/1066800621
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice. Treasured memories of John and words of condolence for his family are welcome at allnuttloveland.com.
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