Robert Milton Litchard

Robert (Bob) Milton Litchard, a respected member of the Denver community since 1982, passed away peacefully on November 19, 2024, surrounded y his family. Bob was born March 21,1935, Niagara Falls, NY, to Evelyn & Milton Litchard.

Bob’s heart found Janice Stevens Hamm at Springfield College in MA and raised a beautiful family, that includes two children: Scott (Bobbi), BJ (Mark), four grandchildren: Caity (Rich), Chad, Ryan, and Nico, and three great grandchildren: Jake, Jackson, Joshua. He was preceded in death by his mother, father, sister (Barbara), granddaughter (Nicole) and wife of 62 years, Janice Stevens Litchard.

Bob was a devoted family man and an accomplished athlete. He participated in football, baseball and wrestling at Niagara Falls High School. He gained a scholarship to Springfield College for both football and baseball where he went on to achieve “All American Athlete” in baseball. He continued his football career, professionally, with the NY Giants as he was getting his Masters in Psychology.

Bob’s career was football and universities. He started his coaching career at Rye High in NY and went on to Brown University and eventually, Cornell University where they won the Ivy League Championship in 71’. After coaching, he took a director position at an institution for troubled teens (George Jr. Republic) just outside of Ithaca, NY. Bob then served as the VP of Major Gifts for the Foundation of the University of Colorado in Boulder, CO. He enjoyed 35 years of supporting major initiatives for the University and the State of Colorado. He was instrumental in the development and funding of Del Ward Center, the Colorado Eye Institute and the University of Colorado Anschutz medical campus. He was proud to have supported multiple Colorado institutions like the YMCA of Denver and the Denver Hospice during his tenure. Both Bob and his wife, Jan, found great comfort and made many great relationships while raising 2 service puppies for the Canine Companions for Independence program. 

Bob’s love for golf and skiing was a defining aspect of his life. He could easily be found on the golf course or the slopes with his son, grandson, or his multitude of friends. Bob found that by creating long lasting friendships he was able to share his passion for the game of football, the need to support colleges and universities and the enjoyment of Colorado’s outdoor activities. 

A memorial service to remember and celebrate Bob’s life will take place Saturday, January 4, 2025 at 11:00 am at Horan & McConaty, 7577 W 80th Ave., Arvada, CO. A reception will follow. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking to please consider donating to the Denver Hospice or any charitable organization.