Carol Ann Lontine

Carol Ann Lontine, 82, passed away peacefully on May 9, 2026, in Lone Tree, Colorado, surrounded by her loving children.

Carol Ann Graham was born on December 19, 1943, in Eagle Butte, South Dakota, to Donald Richard Graham and Lottie Belle Jefferson. She was raised in a large and close‑knit family and was one of nine siblings: Sharon Ruddell, Judy Hankin (deceased), Robert Nutting (deceased), Edward Wood (deceased), Beverly Towne, Linda Gordon, Sandra Mudra, and William Troxler.

Carol attended high school in Erie, Colorado, where she formed friendships that endured throughout her life. On November 16, 1962, she married John Lee Lontine. Together they built a life rooted in family, dedication, and community involvement.

Carol devoted herself wholeheartedly to her children and their activities. She was a constant presence as a volunteer in youth programs—serving as a teacher’s aide, team mom for multiple sports teams, and Secretary‑Treasurer for her sons’ Little League. She also volunteered for many years at Bingo fundraisers supporting Regis High School sports and Northglenn High School marching band programs. Even while giving so generously of her time to others, Carol cultivated passions of her own. She was an accomplished bowler who competed in several leagues and tournaments, enjoyed traveling, and was an avid sports fan who loved following games and sharing that enthusiasm with family. Watching sports was a source of joy for her and a connection point across generations.

A lifelong animal lover, Carol rescued several animals from shelters and believed deeply in caring for those who could not care for themselves. As one friend fondly recalled, “She believed animals deserve a nice retirement too.” For more than 30 years, Carol also supported Compassion International, faithfully contributing her time and resources to help children living in poverty.

Carol worked for RH Bell Company and later for Rocky Flats, where she dedicated more than 20 years of service. Following her time at Rocky Flats, she continued her career at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) and the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research (UCAR) before retiring.

Above all, Carol cherished relationships. She maintained close bonds with extended family members, including cousins, remained connected with dear friends from high school, and cultivated many meaningful friendships throughout her life, including those formed during her years living independently in Golden and Aurora. Her warmth, loyalty, and genuine interest in others left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

Carol is survived by her three children, Michael David Lontine and his wife Joy, Theodore Lee Lontine, and Suzanne Rene Lontine and her husband Chris Winningham; her grandchildren Jordan, Tyler, Derek, Trevor, Kyle, and Harry; her step‑grandchildren Emily and Quinn; and fifteen great‑grandchildren, with another soon to join the family.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Carol’s memory be made to:

Friends of Foothills Animal Shelter

580 McIntyre Street

Golden, CO 80401