Richard Grandell

Richard Grandell, a master plumber and pipefitter and proud member of the Local 58, died unexpectedly on December 17, 2021, at the age of 68 at his home in Mosca, CO.

Richard is survived by his wife Barb Grandell, his children; Josh (Shelly) Grandell, Christie (Jeremy) Swanson, Merisa (Tyler) Armstrong, Tim (Belen) Grandell, his sister Rose Buhr and the grandchildren that gave him so much joy; Jordan Swanson, Landen Swanson, Cameron Swanson, Cadence Grandell, Ethan Swanson-Montoya, Jax Armstrong, Taya Armstrong, Preston Swanson, Kyden Armstrong, Emi Grandell, and Eli Grandell. He is preceded in death by his grandson Aidyn Grandell, father Willard Grandell, mother Dett Grandell, brother Charles Grandell, and both maternal and paternal grandparents. Rich was a loving husband and father. He took pride in spending time with his grandchildren in his later years.  He enjoyed caring for them and listening to their giggles echo from a distance.  He often shared advice with them and encouraged them throughout their daily lives. Papa told the best stories!

His years in the military and extensive union pipefitter career took him to many places. Rich was well traveled. A Vietnam-era U.S. Army veteran, and a recipient of the National Defense Service Medal, he took great pride in his service to his country. Being a decades-long member of the Local 58 Plumber’s and Pipefitter’s union, he fully supported and encouraged those who were seeking direction and supportive career communities to pursue union trades. Rich made friends wherever he went and would hold a conversation with anyone. He enjoyed sharing his stories and adventures with both friends and family. He had an extreme knowledge for random facts and really was a cultured man. He had a “Big Fish” affect on those that knew him.

Rich never picked his nose in a buffalo herd, and he advised those he loved with the same words of advice. He was known for his sense of humor and love for animals. He enjoyed calling birds and communicating with animals. Having a special connection with them that can be contributed to his pride in his heritage. In his retirement, he spent many hours researching lineage and reached to as many “new” family members as he could. Rich honored his Native American heritage within his daily choices. His influence on his friends and family will have a generational impact. May he always be the light in a saddened room.

Graveside services planned for a later date.

Rogers Family Mortuary is in care of the arrangements.  To leave online condolences, tributes and words of comfort for Rich’s family, please visit www.RogersFunerals.com