Ronald Lee Retherford

“It is what it is”Ronald Retherford, born August 2, 1936, to Cecil and Mattie Retherford in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, passed away on April 11, 2024, after bravely battling cancer, surrounded by his loving children. He was a cherished father and grandfather, residing in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Ron is survived by his children and his brothers, David of Oakridge, Missouri, Charles, and Michael of Cape Girardeau, Missouri, as well as several nieces and nephews. He 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, Missouri. After high school, he joined the Missouri National Guard briefly before enlisting in the United States Air Force on October 26, 1954. He served his country with distinction until his retirement on August 1, 1979, achieving the rank of Master Sergeant E-7. Throughout his military career, Ron was stationed in various locations including Okinawa, Japan, The Azores, Portugal, Vietnam, and several stateside assignments before settling in Colorado Springs, Colorado.During his early years in the Air Force, Ron met and married Marilyn Spalding on July 20, 1957. They shared a loving marriage and were blessed with four children: Darla (Alan) Ham, Robin Mulready, Ronald M., and Darren. Ron leaves behind eight grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, and one on the way.After retiring from the Air Force, Ron worked at Peterson AFB as a billeting manager for 10 years before joining the El Paso County Sheriff's Office as a property technician and clerk from 1990 to 2003, where he served with dedication until his final retirement.Settling in Widefield, Colorado, Ron and Marilyn built their home in 1973, where they raised their children. Ron was passionate about baseball, always rooting for his beloved St. Louis Cardinals, and instilling his love for the game in his children. He never missed his kids' little league games and took great joy in attending his grandchildren's sporting events.Ron had a passion for fishing and enjoyed numerous trips, always exclaiming, "oh, I think I got a good one," even if it turned out to be just a snag or a small catch.Despite his battle with cancer, Ron lived a full life surrounded by family and friends. His trademark whistle would call his children home when they were playing outside as young teens. In the end, he heard one final whistle from his beloved wife, signaling it was time to come home.Rest in peace, old man and Pops. You will be deeply missed and forever loved.

Visitation, 11:00AM, Monday, April 22, 2024, The Springs Funeral Services, 3115 East Platte Avenue, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80909.

Funeral Service, 12:00PM, Monday, April 22, 2024, The Springs Funeral Services, 3115 East Platte Avenue, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80909.

Graveside Service, 2:00PM, Monday, April 22, 2024, Evergreen Cemetery, 1005 Hancock Expressway, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80903.