Obituary of Richard Handmaker

Dick Handmaker
August 19, 1933 - January 3, 2023
Dick Handmaker passed away at the age of 89.

He was born in Louisville KY, and spent most of his childhood in
Paducah KY. Family, honor, and country were the guideposts of his
life.

In addition to his outstanding scholastic achievements in high school,
he lettered in Football and Track and
Field.

After graduation from high school, Dick
served in the Army for two years. He then
went on to study at the University of
Kentucky, earning a Bachelor of Science
degree with distinction in Accounting. In
1962 Dick married Janet Mendelson. A
few years later Dick and Janet moved to
Denver and then to Greenwood Village
where Dick was to spend the remainder
of his life.

In his early years Dick worked as an
accountant at Samsonite Corporation.
Later he became assistant controller at
Cobe Laboratories.

Dick was a sports fan. He loved watching
football, particularly The Denver Broncos
and the CU Buffs. Basketball, golf and
the Indy 500 also captured his attention.
Each May, he would remind all who knew
him of his southern roots by watching The
Kentucky Derby.

A dedicated family man, Dick is survived by his wife, Janet
Handmaker, son David Handmaker and daughter Leslie Gelina
(Handmaker).

Janet remembers Dick as loving, supportive, generous and engaged
throughout their 60 years of marriage. At gift giving times, he was
always prepared. Just two weeks before his death, he purchased a
beautiful levitating Moonglow as a holiday gift for her. She will always
treasure it.

David credits his father with supporting him at his childhood basketball
games, waking up early on cold snowy mornings to help him with his
paper route, providing a wonderful home and college education, being
a lifelong source of encouragement, considering another’s perspective
and teaching him the value of trying harder.

Leslie remembers her Dad leaving work early to attend her childhood
soccer games still wearing his suit and tie, teaching her life skills such
as changing a tire on a car, and the joy of attending Bronco games
with him.

Interment: Fort Logan Cementary, Staging Area B, Monday, January
30, 2023 at 11:30 am