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Alternative Cremation, 2377 North Academy Boulevard, Colorado Springs, CO (2026)

10/21/2026

Carmen Ray Johnson was born on September 24,1946 to Carmen and Dolores Johnson in Salina, KS.

Ray had a zest for life. He was an innovator, an inventor, always testing, experimenting and designing. After attending GM Institute in Michigan and graduating from the University of North Dakota with a degree in Electrical Engineering, he worked for several companies as a design engineer, including Data One Hundred Corp, IBM and Quantum. Ray worked many projects as a test engineer, supervising, development, and design, but his favorite project was working on the prototype of the first GPS system.

Ray had numerous interests, including a love of music. He taught himself banjo, fiddle and bass, even making some of his own instruments. He found much joy in playing in local bluegrass bands. He was Vice President of his HAMM Radio club for many years, interacting with people all over the world.

He loved animals, and found many creative ways to feed his squirrels and entertain his dogs and cats.

Ray is survived by his siblings Janis Siemers, Carol Hocking, Mary Millward, Tom Johnson, Lisa Baker, Nancy Williams and Bill Johnson. He will be dearly missed.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings Chris Johnson, Sarah Churm, Ben Johnson, and dear friend, Deanna Burgess.

The family will be holding a private memorial service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to your favorite charity.

Ray often wrote his thoughts in a notebook he kept nearby. One of his most recent was, “Eternity is a long time. Common sense and reason are not enough to come to faith in Christ. If you believe in your heart and confess with your mouth, you will be saved.”

10/21/2026

Stephen Sicola
Born August 16, 1957, passed age 69 on October 11, 2026
Steve was born in El Paso, Texas to Vincent (Charles) & Shirley Sicola. His father was a respected member of the Air Force, cheered at many Bronco games with Steve, and passed on his pride in their Sicilian heritage. A seasoned school district lunch director, Steve’s mom taught him not only to cook, but also the joy and love in cooking for others, something he carried throughout his life.
He grew up in Thornton, Colorado where his intelligence and determination earned him a full ride to Stanford. His love for engineering and innovation led him to earn advanced degrees in electrical engineering and computer science/architecture. He transformed the computer storage industry for over 40 years and grew to be a respected figure who brought laughter, joy, and of course food to all around him. He was deeply fulfilled by his career and work family.
He loved his friends and family dearly and his generosity was immense– concerts, chili cook-offs, traveling, having parties for any occasion, and just creating and sharing moments with others were his happiest times. He was very proud of his daughters, Amber and Angie, who meant the world to him. He was a silly dad who loved spending time with them, making them giggle, teaching them to cook and play tennis, a favorite pastime of his, and cheering them on in whatever they did. His love for dogs, especially Great Pyrenees, ran deep, and he took pride in being a dad/grandpa dad to many fur babies and treated them like the valuable family members they were. He brought fabulous food to others with new recipes and of course tried-and-true family and friend traditions. He loved to travel and explore all the world had to offer. Whenever and wherever others travelled, they could count on him for a recommendation of at least one excellent place to eat. He will be remembered for his kindness, compassion, intellect, sense of humor, generosity and so much more... If something could become an acronym, he would have the perfect one. His optimism and “positive waves” were infectious. He never stayed angry, had endless patience, and loved more than anything. I couldn’t have asked for a better dad and will miss him every day, though his memory will live on in all who knew him, and we’ll see each other in the next life.
Steve was preceded in death by parents Vincent & Shirley Sicola, and daughter Angelina Sicola, and he is survived by brothers Charlie Sicola and Mike (Valerie) Sicola, daughter Amber (Shane) Pinchock-Sicola, and several loving nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
We’d like to thank the friends, family, caregivers, and hospice workers who supported him during his last months, who helped him be as comfortable as possible. We are grateful to you for easing a difficult journey. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

10/20/2026

James (Bill) William Hunter, 83, died peacefully on September 29, 2026, from age related health issues, in Colorado Springs, Colorado. He was born on October 5, 1942 to William Walton Hunter and Ruth Elizabeth (Barnes) Hunter, in Astoria, Queens, New York City, New York.
He graduated from William Cullen Bryant High School in Queens, New York, before enlisting in the United States Marines, where he served honorably in the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962. After 6 years in the Marines, Bill enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he served an additional 15 years in Ground Transportation before retiring as an E6 Tech Sergeant. Completing a total of 21 years in the military. Retiring completely on Sept, 1, 1980.
Bill stayed in transportation by becoming a Charter Tour Bus driver, before his final retirement in 2013.
Bill was a dedicated and loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and uncle. He had a passion for history that he found in books or in the experiences he had both in the service and as a driver. He loved to talk about everything that he found interesting and greatest joy was his passion for trains and talking about them… A LOT. Bill was lovingly known as Pops by his family and to anyone who saw him as a father figure. He always tried to make people laugh with jokes.
Pops is survived by his wife of 54 years Gail (Castleman) Hunter, Colorado Springs, CO, Son William (Wheelz) Hunter, Colorado Springs, CO, son, Douglas Hunter, Thornton, CO, three Grandchildren, Seth Hanley, Colorado Springs, CO, Autumn Sorrentino, Fort Collins, CO, Adelaide Hunter, Thornton, CO, great-grandson, Scotty, and numerous “kids” throughout our life who saw him as a father figure.
Bill will be laid to rest in a Veterans Service which will be held on October 29, 2026 at 1pm. Pikes Peak National Cemetery 10545 Drennan Road, Colorado Springs, CO 80925
In lieu of flowers, the family would suggest donations to the Colorado Railroad Museum (coloradorailroadmuseum.org) or your local animal shelter.

10/20/2026

Deloras Lynn (Arnold) Kelley, known to family and friends as Dee, was born on September 8, 1937, in Farris, Oklahoma, to Harvey Herman Arnold and Lola Ellen Flowers. She passed away at home in Colorado Springs, Colorado, on September 25, 2026, at the age of 89.

Dee grew up on a farm in Oklahoma, where she developed a lifelong appreciation for hard work and the outdoors. She attended Oklahoma State University, where she met James Kelley. They married and raised three children: Doug Kelley, Roger Kelley, and Heather Kelley Stolz.

An adventurer at heart, Dee loved hunting, fishing, camping, and road trips. She shared her love of the outdoors with her children and continued hunting and fishing well into her late 80s. She also enjoyed gardening, canning, and exploring new places. Creative and stylish, she enjoyed sewing, making jewelry, and crafts. Dee had a remarkable eye for fashion throughout her life.

Family was at the center of Dee’s life. She was a strong, resilient, and resourceful woman who worked hard to provide for her family. A kind, steady presence with a subtle sense of humor, she held her family together and faced life’s challenges with determination. She found joy in the experiences she loved and took pride in caring for herself and her family. She leaves behind a legacy of perseverance, adventure, creativity, and love that will continue through the generations of her family.

In her later years, Dee continued to embrace life through travel, friendships, and adventures. She was part of a close-knit senior card-playing group and an RV travel group, forming lasting friendships and sharing new experiences.

Dee was preceded in death by her parents, Harvey Herman Arnold and Lola Ellen Flowers; her husband, James Kelley; and her sisters, Wanda Arnold Fillmore, Yvonne Arnold Miller, and Maureen Arnold.

She is survived by her three children, Doug Kelley, Roger Kelley (Carla), and Heather Kelley Stolz; her four grandchildren, Nicole Kelley Lambdin (Lawrence) , Alexis Kelley Armstrong (Ben), Derek Stolz, and Jason Stolz (Julia); her two great-grandchildren, Samuel Lambdin and Grace Lambdin; and her brother, Harvey Arnold.

A memorial service for Dee will be held on October 23, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Alternative Cremation, 2377 N. Academy Blvd., Colorado Springs, CO 80909.

10/18/2026

In Loving Memory of Jeffrey Ray "Goose" Irving
Jeffrey Ray "Goose" Irving, a man of profound peace, creativity, and love, passed away peacefully in Colorado September 26th 2026, 73 years old—the place where he always found himself happiest and most at peace.
Born July 27th 1953 in Fort Wayne, Indiana to Albert Irving and Donna Ann Rousseau Irving, Jeff later resided in Bloomington, Indiana, where he became a well-known advocate for harmony and unity. To know Jeff was to know the true meaning of peace and love. Every Wednesday night, he could be found alongside friends in Bloomington, peacefully protesting and sharing his message of universal love with the community. He poured his passion into handcrafting peace signs, spreading his gentle philosophy to everyone he met.
When he wasn’t advocating for a better world, Jeff lived life fully and vibrantly. He was an avid soccer player for over 30 years, an enthusiastic cyclist, a trail walker, and a traveler. He possessed a deep appreciation for the beauty of nature, sharing his love for rocks, stained glass, and artistic creations with his beloved daughter and granddaughters. Jeff will forever be remembered for his boundless creativity, his wisdom, and his incredibly soft heart.
Jeff’s legacy of love lives on through his family. He is survived by:
• His devoted daughter, Samantha Ann Sterrett (husband Thomas Sterrett)
• His cherished granddaughters, Kaylee Renee Hayes and Zigorah Nova Sterrett
• His loving sister, Linda Ann Pierr (husband Gerald Pierr)
• His dear nephews, Tiffin and Janeen
He was preceded in death by his mother, Donna, his father, Albert, and his niece, Lee Ann Williams.
To honor his memory and continue his lifelong mission, friends and family will gather for a peace rally at a later date to celebrate his remarkable life.

10/11/2026

IN LOVING MEMORY OF
Vicky Warren
It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Vicky Warren, who passed away peacefully in her sleep on the morning of October 3, 2026.
Vicky's final days were filled with love and laughter, surrounded by family and good friends. If you knew Vicky, you know she went out the same way she lived-feisty and fighting. She was a wildfire that couldn't be contained, and throughout these last two months, she was cared for and surrounded by people who loved her deeply.
Of all the things Vicky loved in this life, nothing meant more to her than her family.
She loved Ryan dearly and treasured the blessing that is Jessica. She absolutely adored her grandchildren, Kaelyn, Oxley, and Allana, who brought tremendous joy to her life.
Her beloved golden retriever, Angel, also held a very special place in her heart and was a constant source of companionship and love.
Vicky was funny, stubborn, feisty, loving, and unapologetically herself. She had a personality you simply couldn't ignore and a spirit you couldn't contain. She touched so many lives simply by being Vicky-and anyone fortunate enough to have known her will understand exactly what that means.
In the end, Vicky was able to leave this world the way she wanted: at home, in her own bed, surrounded by love.
She was greatly loved, and she will be forever missed. Her laughter, strength, stubbornness, love, and unmistakable spirit will live on in the family and friends who were fortunate enough to share their lives with her.
Rest easy, Vicky

10/08/2026

Elaine (Ponticelli) Heath, 91, of Colorado Springs, CO passed away on September 26, 2026, peacefully with family by her side at Pikes Peak Post Acute. Elaine was born in Revere, MA and is preceded in death by her parents Charles and Elizabeth Ponticelli, her husband Lynwood Heath, sons Steven and Norman Cronin, sisters Louise, Joyce, Betty and her brother Charles. Elaine is survived by her son Daniel and his wife Roseanne Cronin of West Warren, MA, daughter Cynthia Belair of Charlton, MA, and son Kenneth and his wife Mary Cronin of Colorado Springs, CO, who was also her caregiver in the last years of her life. She also had 13 grandchildren, 25 great grandchildren and 6 great-great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews, whom she adored.

Elaine worked many years at St. Vincent Hospital in Worcester, MA. She enjoyed cooking Italian food and baking Italian Love Cake for her family and friends. She also enjoyed doing puzzles and playing cards. Elaine was a member of Fountain Valley Senior Center, at which she enjoyed different events like the Christmas celebration and New Years party and other social events.

There will be a funeral mass at 10:00 a.m. on October 14 at St. Dominic Catholic Church - 5354 S. HWY 85 Security, CO 80911.

10/07/2026

James Anthony Aust

October 28, 1966 – September 18, 2026

James “Jim” Anthony Aust, 59, of Colorado Springs, Colorado, passed away on September 18, 2026. He was born on October 28, 1966, in Torrance, California, to Linda (Denison) and Patrick Aust.

Jim grew up in the Southern California sunshine, where his love of music, cars, and adventure began. He was always someone who could make people laugh, whether with a perfectly timed joke, a ridiculous story, or simply by being himself. He loved his music loud and unapologetic—from Adam and the Ants and the Beastie Boys to the classic rock he grew up listening to. That sense of fun, individuality, and nostalgia stayed with him throughout his life.

Jim proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, a part of his life that his family will always honor and remember with pride.

But some of the most important years of Jim’s life were the years he spent being a father. He was a dad to Blake, Ashley, and Rachael, and each of his children held a different, deeply personal place in his heart. Fatherhood was a part of Jim’s life through many different chapters, and his children will carry memories of him from all of them—the ordinary days, the funny moments, the difficult moments, and the countless little pieces of life that become the memories we hold onto most.

Jim had a way of bringing his interests into the lives of the people he loved. His children grew up knowing that cars were never just cars to him. They represented history, creativity, freedom, and the joy of making something with your own hands. His passion for classic cars began when he was a boy and stayed with him for the rest of his life. He had a particular love for 1932 Fords and ’32 Roadsters, as well as 1950s and ’60s Chevy pickups, especially the C10.

After living in Delaware for a few years, Jim moved to Colorado in 2022 to be closer to his daughter and her family, and move in with his son. The move gave him the opportunity to be closer to the people he loved while also pursuing something that had been a lifelong passion. He found his dream job at Colorado’s Hot Rod Heaven, where he could spend his days surrounded by the classic cars he had loved since childhood. He loved the work, the cars, and especially the people he worked alongside.

In the later years of his life, Jim found a special kind of joy in being a grandfather. He adored his granddaughters, Emma and Ava, and took every opportunity to be part of their world. He never wanted to miss an event he was invited to, and he made even the simplest moments memorable. Every Halloween became an opportunity to dress up alongside the girls and go trick-or-treating. He played silly Barbie games, shared his collections and classic toys, and delighted in seeing the things he loved through their eyes.

Jim is survived by his children, Blake Aust, Ashley (Brandon) Vrcic, and Rachael Aust; his granddaughters, Emma and Ava Vrcic; his parents, Linda and Patrick Aust; and his sister, Jennifer Aust.

A funeral service with military honors will be held on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Pikes Peak National Cemetery. A celebration of life will follow at 2:00 p.m. at his daughter’s home.

Jim will be remembered for his big heart, his sense of humor, his unmistakable love of music and classic cars, and the way he could make the people around him laugh. He will be remembered as a father, a grandfather, a son, a brother, a veteran, a friend, and a man who found joy in the things he loved.

Most of all, he will be remembered by the people who knew him best—not simply for the milestones of his life, but for the countless small moments that made him their Jim.

He will be deeply missed and forever loved.

10/05/2026

Ruland Clifford Lawson
February 15, 1984 – September 25, 2026

Ruland Clifford Lawson, affectionately known as Uncle Bud to his nieces and nephews, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on Friday, September 25, 2026. His sudden departure has left his family and friends in profound shock and heartbreak.

Please join us for his Funeral/Memorial/Celebration of Life
Saturday, Oct 17, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
5375 Centennial Blvd
Colorado Springs, CO 80919

To know Ruland (R.C.) was to know pure love, acceptance, hope, and unwavering loyalty. He was the best and loudest cheerleader for those he loved and the biggest, most comforting shoulder to cry on. Incredibly empathetic to a hurting soul, he was always genuinely thrilled for the dreams and accomplishments of others. He was the best hugger and had the biggest heart. He was simply one of the most beautiful and caring people any of us have ever known.

Through life’s many turbulent times, Ruland showed unbelievable resilience, never allowing anything to dull the bright, warm light that shone from his soul until the very end.

Ruland never knew a stranger. He made friends easily wherever he went and would always lend a helping hand when asked or when someone was in need. He was a talented third generation carpenter who took great pride in his work and truly loved what he did. In his free time, he enjoyed spending time with family and friends, hunting, fishing, camping, and gaming.

His passion and love for animals and children, especially his beloved dogs, knew no bounds. His furry companions were family to him, and the love and care he gave them was evident to everyone who knew him. He had a special place in his heart for those who needed love and compassion, and he gave it freely.

He adored his nieces and nephews and took great joy in being Uncle Bud. He was always ready with a hug, a laugh, encouragement, or simply a listening ear. His love for them was unconditional, and the memories they made with him will be treasured forever.

Ruland is survived by his mother, Connie Jo Lawson; his father, Gregory Leroy Lawson; his sister and her husband, Jules and Richard Hagala; his sister and her significant other, Barbara Deinken and Shawn Flaharty; his nieces and nephews, Maddie, Genna, Eli, Gavin, Donovan and Lexi; his step-sisters and mom; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family members who loved him dearly. He also leaves behind many others who became like family to him throughout his life.

The family expresses their deepest gratitude and a special thank you to his church family, especially Elder and Sister Butterfield, Bishop Urquhart, Elder Ross, Elder Thompson, and Marla and Jim Scott. You made a profound difference in Ruland’s life, and for that, we will always be grateful.

Ruland (R.C.) was a loving son, brother, uncle, friend, and brother-in-law. He will be deeply missed by all whose lives he touched. His laughter, his hugs, his compassion, and his enormous heart will remain with us always.

Though our hearts are broken by his sudden departure, we take comfort in knowing that Ruland has joined his beloved grandparents in heaven and is finally at peace, surrounded by the love that awaits him there.

Our world is a sadder place without him, but the love he gave so freely will continue to live on in the hearts of everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

In lieu of flowers we encourage you to make a gift in Ruland’s honor to his church or a charity of your choice, particularly one that provides food, shelter, or assistance to those in need

10/01/2026

Remembering CW "Woody" Whitaker
October 11, 1942 – August 27, 2026
CW "Woody" Whitaker passed away on August 27, 2026, at age 83, surrounded by the family he loved. A devoted son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, and beloved "Uncle Dad," Woody brought a gentle, playful spirit to his relationships and an artisan's eye to his work as a builder.
Born in Eagar, Arizona, to Walter William Whitaker and Ruby Jewel Dyer, Woody grew up in Lancaster, California, with his siblings, Darlene, William "Bill," and Robert "Bob." His love of building began early, when he and his siblings helped construct the family home. Raised by a father who put his children to work as soon as they could hold a hammer, Woody developed the discipline and work ethic that guided him throughout his life.
At Antelope Valley High School, Woody excelled in gymnastics and was named Mr. Antelope Valley, remembered as a likable, well-rounded student. He went on to work as a carpenter for Del Webb on developments in Carson City, Nevada, and later on Southern California projects including the Anaheim Convention Center.
Woody brought an appreciation for beauty, architecture, and wood to everything he created. Over the years, he built custom homes across California and Colorado that families still enjoy. His own family lived in homes he designed and built, from the "tree house" near the ocean in Aptos, California, to the “Baja Sol” mountainside retreat, and eventually his "retirement" home on a high ridge in Florissant, Colorado, overlooking a beautiful valley. Each reflected his detailed craftsmanship and his love of the natural landscape.
Woody met his wife, Pam, in Southern California. Through 58 years of marriage, she was his steadfast supporter, his practical, level-headed partner, and his anchor through every season of life. Together they built a life around home-building, family camping trips, and frequent gatherings with loved ones, sharing the work, decisions, challenges, and joys of providing for their family. In his later years of illness, Pam became his devoted caregiver, extending the love that had always sustained their partnership.
Woody loved his work, but he loved his children even more. Weekends often meant bringing them along to building sites, where helping with cleanup earned a trip for ice cream or candy, a reward that suited his own sweet tooth. In a particularly good mood, he would sing out loud, hamming it up to make his kids laugh.
He also shared his love of the outdoors, taking the family to lakes and mountains for camping, fishing, hunting, and watersports. Through work and adventures together, Woody taught his children and grandchildren to work hard and show up for family, whatever the circumstances.
With his gentle nature and easy charm, Woody was a peacemaker who put people at ease and built lasting friendships and business relationships. His nieces, Lisa and Jennifer, lovingly called him "Uncle Dad," a name earned through his devotion from their childhood into adulthood. The family who surrounded him at the end of his life reflected the close relationships he nurtured.
Woody is survived by his wife, Pam; his five children, David Whitaker, Melissa Whitaker, Amber Whitaker-Martin, Angela Pruneski, and Andrea Motzkin; 11 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren, with a 13th due October 19. He is also survived by his sister, Darlene; his brother, Bob; his sister-in-law, Sandra Spytman; and his nieces and "Uncle Dad" daughters, Lisa Weeres and Jennifer Bartelson. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Bill.
Family and close friends will gather for a private celebration of Woody's life on what would have been his 84th birthday, at his Florissant mountain home, to share stories, comfort one another, and remember the many ways he shaped their lives.

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