Ronald Lee Retherford

It is what it is.

Ronald Lee Retherford

Beloved Father and Grandfather of Colorado Spring Colorado passed away April 11th, 2024, after a battle with Cancer, surrounded by his loving children. Survived by his children, and his brothers, David of Oakridge, Mo., Charles and Michael of Cape Girardeau and several nieces and nephews. Ron was preceded in death by his wife Marilyn of 56 years, his parents Cecil and Mattie Retherford, sister Anna Mae Hahn and daughter in-law Jana Retherford. Ron attended Central High School in Cape Girardeau Mo. After high school Ron joined the Missouri National Guard for a short stint and then was able to enlist in the United States Air Force on October 26, 1954, and retired August 1st, 1979. While enlisted Ron was assigned to several locations, including Okinawa, Japan, The Azores, Portugal, Vietnam, and various state side locations ending in Colorado Springs Colorado where he retired August 1st, 1979, with the rank of Master Sargeant E-7. Receiving the Meritorious Service award, National Defense Medal, Republic of Vietnam service metal, The Military and good conduct medal, 

During the early times he met and married Marilyn Spalding on July 20th, 1957, and married for 56 years, during the marriage they had 4 children, Darla (Alan) Ham, Robin Mulready, Ronald M, and Darren. Ron has 8 grand kids and 10 great grand kids and one on the way. After retiring from the Air Force Ron worked at Peterson AFB as billeting Manager for 10 years, and then he went to work for the El Paso County Sheriff's Office as a property technician and clerk from 1990 to 2003, then finally retiring for good. While stationed in Colorado Springs Colorado Ron and Marilyn had a house built in Widefield in 1973 where they settled and raised their kids. Ron loved baseball watching the St Louis Cardinals every chance he got and made sure his kids knew the game was on. Ron attended his kids little league games when he was able and also enjoyed his grandkids sports and games. Ron enjoyed fishing going on several trips usually saying, “oh I think I got a good one”, even though it might be a snag or a couple of inches.

Ron was diagnosed several years ago with the dreaded cancer and was able to fend it off for many years leading to a long life with family and friends. When we were young teens and playing outside, he would whistle to get our attention if we were in ear shot, we knew it was time to come home.

In the end Dad heard one final whistle, from our mom telling him it's time to come home.

Rest in peace old man and pops.

We love you and you will be missed.

Services will be at The Springs Funeral Services  3115 E Platte Ave Colorado Springs, Co. 80909

Visitation  11:00-12:00

Services  1200-1:00

Burial at Evergreen Cemetery  2:00