Richard Alan Loftis, 65, of Eaton, Colorado, died Friday June 29, 2012 at his home.
He was born February 10, 1947 in Lynwood, CA. Dick moved with his Family to Colorado in 1955. He grew up in Aurora CO, and graduated from Aurora Central High School in 1965. He attended the University of Northern Colorado on a football scholarship. Dick enlisted in the Army in 1967, achieved Military Honor, and received an honorable discharge in 1969. In 1971, Dick married Carol Bruce of Haxtun, CO. He graduated from UNC with a BA in Elementary Education in 1973. In the same year, he started his teaching career as a 1st grade teacher in Kremmling, CO. Dick brought his family to Eaton, CO in 1978, where he taught 3rd and 6th grades and continued his coaching career in middle school football and track. In 1995, Dick joined the Eaton High School Football coaching staff. Prior to retiring from teaching in 2004, he received the National Troops to Teachers Award. Dick continued to coach football through the 2010 season. After retiring from teaching, Dick stayed active in the community by working at Al's Pit Stop and Heritage Market in Eaton. He also served on the Eaton Town Council for 2 terms.
Dick accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior at an early age. His Christian faith was always a priority. After moving to Eaton, Dick was active in church life including choir, kids programs, Sunday school, and deacon board at Eaton Evangelical Free Church and Christ Community Church in Greeley.
Dick Loftis loved and cared for people, was gifted at working with children, and always left them laughing.
Survivors include his wife of 40 years, Carol Loftis of Eaton; 3 children, Josh Loftis of Minneapolis (wife Melissa), Emily Shelton of Eaton (husband Russ), Paul Loftis of Denver (wife Lesley); 5 grandchildren, Madeline, Austin, Brooklyn, Weston and Elliott; his mother, Ruth Loftis of Aurora; his sister, Ann Heintz of Aurora (husband Richard); his brother, Steve Loftis of Castle Pines (wife Eve) and many beloved nieces and nephews. Dick was preceded in death by his father Robert Loftis.
A memorial service to celebrate Dick's life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, July 6, 2012 at the Evangelical Free Church of Eaton, 1325 3rd Street in Eaton. Private family visitation will be held. Dick's urn will be interred at Ft. Logan National Cemetery.
Memorial gifts may be made to the Eaton High School Football Program, the Eaton Fire Department or the Gideon Society. They can be sent in care of Moser Funeral Service, 3501 S. 11th Avenue, Evans, Colorado 80620.