John Vandemoer Iii

A defining moment in John’s life was when he contracted Polio as a child.  He had to spend a lot of time alone, passing the time in his room playing with his stamp collection and his favorite train set with his beloved dog by his side as his main companion.  This would be a very difficult childhood for some but even at a young age John’s calm nature and persevering spirit carried him through it. Through his faith and determination John went on to lead a fulfilling and productive life with health being one of his main priorities.

John Jay Vandemoer, III, 79, died at his home in Westminster on December 23rd.

Born on May 6th in Denver, CO he lived in Cheyenne Wells throughout his childhood.  After graduating from Cheyenne Wells High School, he attended Pueblo State Junior College while living in Julesburg with his family.  He then transferred to Colorado State University in Fort Collins where he received his bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Secondary Education.  We went on to get his master’s degree in Special Education at the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley.  After college, he taught high school, living in various locations around Denver before settling at his long term residence in Westminster.

John’s career was more of a lifelong passion than a job.  While still teaching, John met John Villano with whom he would form real estate partnerships with.  John managed these partnerships over the years and put his heart and soul into it. Every weekend, rain or shine, he and Villano would drive out to the various plots of land to check everything out, driving around in his green Ford Explorer.  He built strong friendships from these partnerships, which he valued dearly.  He was held in high regard by all his business partners as being loyal, trustworthy and honest.

When John wasn’t working you’d most likely find him at the gym.  He had a passion for health and wellness and never wanted to miss a day’s workout.  A typical two hour session would take John four hours not only because he wanted a thorough workout but because he also loved socializing there.  There was more than one occasion with he had to be dragged out.

John also had a love for his family.  He met his wife Carol when she was invited to his birthday party by her daughter.  Carol went, not knowing anyone.  They felt an immediate connection and by the end of the evening they exchanged numbers and made plans for their first date.  The rest is history.  They spent 22 years together and shared many interests and life experiences.  John shared his love of motorcycles with Carol, convincing her to buy one of her own.  They rode them to the gym and out to their real estate properties but their favorite rides were up to the mountains.  They also took many trips together.  They went to Alaska, Hawaii, Panama, The Bahamas and Mexico, to name a few, but on a typical day you would find them in their dining room on their computers, John checking his stocks, and this is where they were truly happy, at home.

He was especially close to his sister Gayle and her children.  He was always there to encourage his sister and lend support.  They shared a very special bond.  He doted over his niece and nephews and was always there to lend advice.  He taught them about responsibility, accountably and hard work and he cared for them all deeply.

John will be remembered as loving his family dearly, always there to help when needed.  He was a loving husband, a wonderful friend and a caring soul.  He was inquisitive, thoughtful and kind and his generosity and selflessness will be missed immensely.

John is preceded in death by his parents Elizabeth and John Jay Vandemoer, Jr.

He is survived by his wife Carol Vandemoer, stepsons Richard Richmond and wife Michelle, and David Tichenor, stepdaughter Glenda Mowery, sister Gayle Webb and husband Steve, grandchildren Nychole Chamberlin and husband Joel, David Brannan, Cassidy Landsford, Zeelyn Richmond, Sabin Tichenor and Ciera Downey, great-grandchildren Jacob Chase, Hayli Brannan and Cade Chamberlin, niece Vanessa Rivas, nephews Sean Ryley and wife Teresa, Shay Ryley, Bryan Ryley and wife Teresa, and Danny Ryley and wife Alyssa.

A memorial will be held at a later date in late spring or early summer.

If you’d like to donate in remembrance of John please send memorial donations to: