James Richard Broyles

James Richard Broyles, husband of Judith (Vik Read), son of Harry Elbert and Bertha (Hopp) Broyles, brother of Wayne and Lynn Broyles, stepfather to Wayne Read (Cathleen Ashliman Read), Tim Read (Cheryl Corbin Read), and Stephanie Read Ahlberg (Brian Ahlberg); Grandpa to Jordan Read; Abigail and Bethany Read; Brandon and Kelley Ahlberg, and Kristina Ahlberg Douglas; and Gavin Ahlberg; and best friend of Tom Read.

But most importantly, he was Judith’s husband. That relationship was the foundation that would set the standard for a young fragile family for the next 40 years.

Rich’s best friend Tom died at an early age.  Rich stepped in and took care of Tom’s family, which ultimately became his family.  If there was a single thing that stood out, it was his love for his wife Judith.   Rich married a young family and raised and loved them as his own.  He provided a home and a safe place where they grew and learned to love.  Wayne, Tim, and Stephanie felt blessed to know the man who cared for them so very much, who loved and was devoted to their mother even more. 

Rich was an Eagle Scout. After serving on staff at the world-renowned Philmont Scout Ranch, he became a Professional Scout Executive with the Boy Scouts.  Rich left Boy Scouting and built a successful financial planning business where he served his clientele for over 30 years.  Rich retired and left his business in good hands with Roger Dael and Karen Smith.  In retirement, Rich spent most of his time volunteering at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science and hanging out with his best buddy Gavin (grandson).

Rich was a confidant for many, including friends, extended family, and people in recovery.  His guidance was a blessing and will be missed.  Rich was a wonderful role model. He tried to find the good in others and in all situations. 

Rich loved adventures.  He was constantly planning, booking, or dreaming about the next trip.  When he wasn’t pouring through travel books and maps, he was meticulously tying flies dreaming of the next cast.  Often, winter’s fly-tying sessions were shared with a grandchild in his lap watching intently.  He passed that adventure trait onto his children and grandchildren.  We all have many memories of weekend camping trips, shows, and vacations.  Those moments together are the foundation of our family.

Rich made a lifetime of giving to his community.  In the 80s, he volunteered at St. Joseph's Church with his close friend Rev. Bob Thompson.  In the 2000s he supported Growing Home financially and by volunteering at their food pantry.  He was also a founding member of the Westminster Public Safety Recognition Foundation.  Later in life, Rich joined Bob again volunteering at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science.  He particularly liked interacting with children and families in Pre-Historic Journey where he could talk for hours about dinosaurs.  Rich enjoyed learning about the special engagements and volunteering with those events as well.

One of the greatest gifts Rich gave to his children, grandchildren (and others) was the gift of financial planning.  He helped them make small decisions with big retirement results.  He also taught that fun along the way shouldn’t be ignored.

Selflessly, in his last few hours, Rich was most concerned with making sure everyone was okay.  Short conversations were had with each family member and that was the common theme.

When Rich passed, he was surrounded by all of his immediate family.   He was calm and at peace.  He was aware and engaged and knew—everyone was going to be okay.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to the Denver Museum of Nature and Science or Growing Home of Westminster.