Gary Morris Holmstead

Our husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, Gary Morris Holmstead, passed away peacefully at his home in Littleton, Colorado, on May 8, 2026, after a full and abundant life.

Gary was born on June 4, 1937 in American Fork, Utah to Morris and Evelyn Holmstead. He graduated in 1955 as Valedictorian for his high school in Lehi, Utah. He later served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Southwest Indian Mission among the Navajo people in Arizona and New Mexico from 1957 to 1959. After his mission, he married his high school sweetheart, LuJeanne Hacking, on November 25, 1959, in the Salt Lake City Utah Temple. Gary continued his studies at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City, where he received a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering.

His career first took him to San Diego where he worked for General Dynamics, and furthered his education by receiving a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering. Then, in 1965, he moved his growing family to Denver, where he worked for Martin Marietta (and later Lockheed Martin when the companies merged). He designed thermal heating and cooling systems for spacecraft – making him, quite literally, a “rocket scientist”. He worked there for over 37 years.

Together, Gary and LuJeanne built a home in Littleton, Colorado, where they spent 45 happy years raising their five children and being surrounded by dear friends and the beloved Colorado mountains. They loved traveling and created treasured memories with their children and grandchildren through visits and annual family reunions. Gary encouraged his growing family to participate in a monthly newsletter which strengthened the extended family bonds. In 2013, his beloved wife of 53 years, LuJeanne, passed away.

Gary was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and faithfully served in many leadership callings throughout his life, including as a bishop. Perhaps one of his greatest exercises in patience, however, was his many years working with young boys and teenagers in the Scouting program. He taught all four of his sons in Scouting and each one earned the rank of Eagle Scout, the highest achievement in the program. Gary also taught early morning seminary to all five of his children, and other students, before school each weekday at 6:00 am.

After the passing of his sweetheart, Gary fell in love with Deloris Crook Christiansen and they were married in the Denver Colorado Temple, on July 27, 2013. Gary and Deloris were loving and devoted companions. Together, they enjoyed traveling, spending time with family and participating in family events. During the nearly thirteen years they shared together, Deloris cared for Gary with constant love and devotion and both became deeply cherished in their blended family.

Gary is survived by his loving wife, Deloris, five children: Gary Lynn (Barbara), Michelle (Gérard), Stephen, (Kendra), Bruce (Lorena), Shawn (Janel); two step-children: Leslie (Scott), and Kevin; 32 grandchildren, and 41 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his two sisters: Kathy (Clint), and Shery.

He was preceded in death by: his parents, Morris and Evelyn; his step-sister, Donna; his brother, Von; his wife, LuJeanne; his daughter-in-law, Heidi (Gary Lynn); and his great-grandson, Brennan.

We are deeply grateful for the nearly 89 wonderful years we were blessed to have Gary with us on this earth. His love, example, and steady presence enriched our lives and strengthened our family forever. We love you, Gary.

Funeral Services will be held Saturday, May 23 at 11:00 am in the Clement Park Ward LDS Chapel at 9227 W. Dartmouth Pl., Lakewood, Colorado. A viewing will be held prior to services from 9:30 to 10:45 am. Interment will be at the Cedar Fort, Utah Cemetery on Tuesday, May 26 at 12:00 pm.