Richard Harold Carter

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Richard Harold Carter, who departed this life on September 3, 2026, at the age of 83. Born on August 4, 1943, in Fort Collins, Colorado, Richard's life was a testament to hard work, dedication, and boundless love for his family and community. Richard was the cherished son of Thomas and Ruby Carter, and he was predeceased by his parents, his brother John Carter, his beloved wife Lynda Carter, his son William Carter, and his granddaughter Cheyenne Carter. He is survived by his daughters Shari Stroup, married to Ron with their son Thomas; Denise Fry, married to Kirk; Granddaughter Sarah Shade, (Eric) with their children Colby, Kaylee, and Eli. Granddaughter Ashley Vlaanderen ( Eric) and their daughter Mallory, and Jacob Coleman ( Jessie), as well as many other loving family members and friends. In September of 1961, Richard married the love of his life, Lynda Kay Brower, whom he met during their junior year at Cache La Poudre. Richard's educational journey began in Laporte, Colorado, where he attended Cache La Poudre school from kindergarten through 12th grade, graduating in 1961. His career was diverse and industrious, reflecting his incredible work ethic and commitment. Richard held numerous roles, including ranching, farming, and dairying, working at a sugar beet factory, cleaning up oil at missile silos, and owning his own dairies. He also worked at the Colorado State University at the bull farm and embryo transfer lab, and served as a Dairy Herd Improvement Milk Tester. Additionally, Richard was skilled in building water test equipment at HACH company, assembling electronic parts for Suzuki, and later working as a greeter at Walmart. A lifelong member of the Church of Christ, Richard attended the Pleasant Valley, Loveland, and Meadowlark congregations. He was well known for driving the JOY bus for the Meadowlark church, a testament to his dedication to helping others and his community. Richard was a man who loved to joke around and was always willing to lend a helping hand. In his leisure time, Richard found joy in fishing, hunting, and crafting a variety of things. These hobbies were not just pastimes but also a way to connect with nature and share his love of life with those around him. A service to honor Richard's life will be held on September 12, 2026, at 2:00 PM at the Pleasant Valley Church of Christ in Bellvue, Colorado. A desert fellowship potluck will follow. As a reflection of his generous spirit, the family kindly suggests donations to the Mountain States Children's Home, Churches of Christ Disaster Relief Fund, or a charity of your choice in lieu of flowers. Richard Harold Carter will be remembered as a hard worker who always gave 100% and more, and as a loving and devoted family man whose legacy of love and laughter will forever be cherished by all who knew him.