James "Jed" Dealy

After a seven-month battle with cancer, Jed, age 70, passed away at home on May 10^th with his wife and daughter by his side. Jed is survived by his wife of 41 years, Mary Jane Dealy and daughter Brittney R. Behounek. Jed’s parents, Robert M. and Elise Dealy preceded him in death. Jed was the oldest of five children and is survived by siblings Elise Anne Dealy, Toronto, Canada; Karen Dealy, Littleton, Colorado; Robert (Bob) Dealy Calgary, Canada; and Cindy Dealy Toronto, Canada. Several nieces and nephews mourn his passing. 

Jed was born in New York City on February 7, 1954. His father’s job took the family beyond the United States to locations throughout Canada, as well as Switzerland and South America. As a result, Jed attended a junior high boarding school and high school at The Hill School where he graduated with the class of 1973. His BA was earned at Bowling Green State University in 1977.  After graduation, a stop in Denver on a cross country trip enticed Jed to pursue job opportunities in Colorado. His successful banking career began at Colorado National Bank and continued at Wells Fargo Bank where he focused on commercial real estate until retirement. 

Jed was an athlete whose enthusiasm for sports started at a young age. He was born to play, and immediately loved hockey when he put on his first CCM Tacks at the age of 2. Winter childhoods in Montreal and Toronto were spent on the ice in arenas, city parks, and homemade backyard rinks where he honed his hockey skills. Jed played competitive hockey throughout his schooling and joined adult leagues in Colorado.  It is no surprise that Jed became a dedicated Avalanche and University of Denver hockey fan. His generous and thoughtful golf friends sent him to the 2024 Frozen Four where DU secured the championship title. 

When Jed wasn’t playing hockey, he played Lacrosse at The Hill School, as well as at Bowling Green in NCAA Division 1 Lacrosse for the Falcons. His love of golf started when he caddied at the Shaker Heights Country Club all through high school.  For over 35 years, Jed swung his clubs at Valley Country Club. His favorite golf trips were to Loch Lomond in Scotland. Throughout the years, participation in sports led to lasting and lifelong friendships that have gone far beyond the sports themselves. 

By nature, Jed was a positive, forward-looking, enthusiastic, hardworking, bright, and high energy individual. Faith, family, and friends sustained Jed during his fight with cancer. He deeply loved his family, and he enjoyed recounting childhood family memories. As a father, Jed was so very proud of his daughter Brittney and her accomplishments. Jed trusted and relied on Brittney’s judgement, particularly after he became ill. With her knowledge and experience as a registered nurse, Brittney has been invaluable in recent months. Jed’s deepest regret was not being able to attend her graduation in August which allows her to become a Nurse Practitioner. 

Family members and friends offered tremendous support, thoughts, and prayers throughout Jed’s illness.   These acts of kindness and caring brought tears to his eyes. Jed and the family have been so very thankful for the compassion shown. Jed will be deeply missed by many. 

In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to Risen Christ Church, The Denver Rescue Mission, or Denver Dumb Friends League.