Liam "Gage" Papay

Gage Papay tragically left this world on December 21, 2024, at the age of 25. Born on July 7, 1999, in Colorado, Gage was a proud native of the state and graduated from Columbine High School in 2018 before attending Colorado State University. He was a loving son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin, and friend to all who knew him. 

Those fortunate enough to spend time with Gage understood exactly why his family often said, “Everyone loves Gage.” His joyful, carefree spirit and quirky sense of humor brought warmth and laughter wherever he went. Even as a young child, Gage found fulfillment in helping others. Whether it was assisting a neighbor or offering support to a friend, his generosity knew no bounds. His go-to response when asked for help was an automatic “I gotchu.” One poignant example of this was when Gage selflessly bought his best friend a new bicycle with his own money after his friend’s was stolen—a testament to his caring heart. 

A man of many talents, Gage was a gifted painter and a self-taught pianist. He had a passion for learning and often immersed himself in mastering new skills, driven by his desire to nurture his creative side. Gage preferred to play by ear, excelling in intricate classical pieces by composers like Chopin, despite never learning to read sheet music. His creative expression wasn’t limited to the arts—he was also athletically gifted, effortlessly mastering physical challenges like running a sub-six-minute mile at age 13, hiking Colorado’s fourteeners with his father and brothers, and earning a black belt in Tae Kwon Do alongside his father, stepmother, and younger siblings. He was a lover of music, sharing unforgettable concert and festival experiences with his sisters.

Gage shared a unique and special bond with his father, Scott. Their relationship was defined by mutual respect, shared interests, and quality time together—whether working on home projects, having deep discussions, or enjoying a movie or meal at their favorite restaurant. Inspired by his father’s zest for life, Gage enjoyed traveling, dreaming of visiting Japan, and embarking on memorable motorcycle trips with his dad, including riding the Colorado backcountry discovery routes—an experience that fulfilled a lifelong dream for Scott to adventure alongside his son. 

Gage was unapologetically himself in every aspect of his life. He was giving, loving, funny, authentic, and incredibly loyal to his friends. He connected deeply with his family, always making time for them. He was unashamed to call his stepmother “Momma” in front of his friends, a reflection of the love he held for her. Playful, compassionate, and wise beyond his years, Gage had a way of bringing lightness and joy to every situation. His endearing quirks, sense of humor, and boundless generosity left an indelible mark on all who knew him. 

Gage was preceded in death by his mother, Linnette Dawn Pollen Papay. He is survived by his father Scott Albert Papay, his stepmother Heather Lynn Fry, his siblings Mason Albert Papay, Amelia Anne Schnelle, Jessa Bree Papay, and Santana Scott Valdez Papay, three sets of loving grandparents, and his cherished cat Lelouch. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. 

A visitation will be held on Monday, December 30, at 1:00 p.m., followed by a memorial service at 2:30 p.m. at Horan & McConaty Funeral Home, 5303 E County Line Road, Centennial, CO 80122. If you are unable to attend, you can access the livestreamed service by clicking here. In lieu of flowers, the family requests living plants or a charitable donation to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention  in Gage’s memory. Gage’s legacy of love, laughter, and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who loved him