Nicholas Ralph Lujan

Nicholas Ralph Lujan, affectionately known as Nick, passed away on October 13, 2026, at the age of 66. Born in Riverton, Wyoming, to John and Louise (Blackburn) Lujan, Nick lived a life filled with friendship, laughter, music, sports, hard work and an enduring love for his Wyoming roots.

A lifelong football enthusiast, Nick began playing in fifth grade during the inaugural season of Casper Midget Football. As a proud member of the Casper Lumber Jets, he helped his team capture the city championship that year and share the championship title the following season. His passion for football continued through middle school and into high school with the Natrona County Mustangs, where he earned his varsity letter three consecutive years before graduating in 1978.

Nick attended Haskell Indian Junior College on a football scholarship, earned an Associate Degree in Radio and Television Broadcasting from Central Wyoming College and also attended the University of Wyoming. His love of football never faded, and he remained a devoted fan of the Wyoming Cowboys and Denver Broncos throughout his life.

Nick’s passion for music and entertainment led to a broadcasting career spanning more than 30 years. As a radio disc jockey for Casper stations KATI, KGRQ, KASS (Jukebox 107), and KQLT, as well as KCWC in Riverton, he became known on the airwaves as “The Jungle Cat.” He later worked in television operations for KTWO (Channel 2) and KGWC (Channel 14) in Casper. In 1998, he moved to Denver, where he continued his career with Comcast and Crown Media until retirement. He also owned and operated a DJ business, providing music for weddings, graduations, and other celebrations.

In 2000, Nick married his former classmate, Diane Duncan, after the two reconnected following their 20th high school reunion, thanks in part to the matchmaking skills of their dear friend, Kathy Sanford Thomas. Together, they made their home in the Denver area, although Nick's heart always remained in Wyoming. Their marriage was built on friendship, laughter, loyalty and a love that deepened through life's joys and challenges.

Nick was known for his quick wit, occasionally irreverent humor, and remarkable knowledge of history, music, and sports. His interests were as varied as they were fascinating, ranging from Marvel comics and Greek mythology to classic Western television shows and movies, and vintage cars. Rarely at a loss for words, he possessed a seemingly encyclopedic memory and an extraordinary ability to recall names, dates, facts, and stories. Friends frequently turned to him to identify a forgotten song, settle a sports debate, or recount a youthful escapade. His colorful storytelling and unmistakable sense of humor made conversations with Nick both entertaining and memorable.

Friendship was one of the great treasures of Nick's life. He was blessed with an extraordinary circle of loyal friends, many of whom he spoke with daily or weekly. These friendships, some spanning decades, were built on shared experiences, laughter, and mutual respect. To Nick, friends were family, and their companionship brought him immeasurable joy. Although Nick did not have children of his own, he held a special place in his heart for his many nieces and nephews, both by blood and through the lifelong friendships he treasured. He embraced them all as family and found great joy in being part of their lives.

In his later years, Nick faced end-stage renal disease and increasing physical limitations with remarkable perseverance and courage. Despite the demands of dialysis, ongoing medical treatments, and the gradual loss of his independence, he continued to find meaning in his relationships and connections with others. He developed friendships with caregivers and fellow patients, bringing his humor, curiosity and gift for conversation into even the most difficult circumstances. Although illness changed the course of his life, it never defined the man he was.

Nick's spiritual life was rooted in his Catholic faith and enriched by his Northern Arapaho heritage and appreciation for Native American spirituality. He drew meaning and strength from both traditions, embracing their shared values of gratitude, compassion, and reverence for life. His faith remained a constant source of comfort and strength, especially during his later years. When declining health prevented him from attending Mass in person, he faithfully watched Mass on television, maintaining his spiritual connection and devotion from home.

Nick was preceded in death by his parents, John and Louise Lujan, and his brothers, John and George. He is survived by his loving wife, Diane; his extended family, including his in-laws, nieces, and nephews; and an extraordinary circle of loyal friends.

Although “The Jungle Cat” has made his final broadcast, the spirit of the man behind the microphone lives on. Nick leaves behind a lifetime of stories, laughter, cherished memories, and love. His voice may no longer fill the airwaves, but the joy he brought to others and the lasting impression he made on their lives will never fade.

Funeral Services

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Church, 6673 W. Chatfield Avenue, Littleton, Colorado 80128.

A reception will immediately follow the Mass in Leone Hall at the church.

Inurnment will take place in Casper, Wyoming, at a later date. Additional details will be shared once arrangements are finalized.

Livestream

For family and friends unable to attend in person, the Funeral Mass will be livestreamed, allowing loved ones near and far to join in celebrating Nick’s life and honoring his memory. Livestream viewing information will be provided prior to the service.

Memorial Contributions

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to the American Kidney Fund in memory of Nicholas Ralph Lujan. Your generosity will help support individuals and families affected by kidney disease.

Donations may be made online at: The American Kidney Fund