John Patrick McIlwee

John Patrick McIlwee , 80 years old, of Colorado, passed away December 11, 2017 at Brookdale Greenwood Village. He was born January 16, 1937 in Gunnison, Colorado to Rosellen Tomkins and John McIlwee II. He served in the U.S Navy from 1958 - 1960. He was stationed in Long Beach, California. He served on the U.S.S. Mansfield as a dispersing clerk. He enjoyed his time out to see in the South Pacific Ocean for 6 months. He is survived by his sister, Mary Ester Field; his daughters Staci (Wayne) Brezinka, Colleen Mize and Kelly McIlwee; his grandchildren Abigail Brezinka, Zachary Brezinka, Delaine Mize, Andrew Brezinka and Brody Mize; as well as his nephews Tom, Mike and Patrick Field, and his best friend of more than 40 year, Jerry (Cindy)Adamek. John was a proud and loving father, grandfather, uncle, friend and community servant. John left a legacy of dignity and hope on the many lives he touched and the on the community of Colorado Springs. His great passion was serving troubled and displaced youth for his entire career through The Division of Youth Services, which he served for 33 years in many positions, and as the Executive Director for Urban Peak Colorado Springs from January 2001 - January 2011. In his retirement he served as a consultant to Children’s Hope Chest, helping boys aging out of the foster care system. He served on numerous boards throughout his career, Colorado Juvenile Council was one he took great pride in serving as president for many years. He was a recipient of numerous awards for his service to the community and various organizations. John loved sports. He enjoyed playing basketball, tennis, golf, softball and participating in Ride the Rockies. He was a passionate sports spectator as well, and could be found spending hours every weekend enjoying both college and professional sports. He was a diehard Denver Broncos fan holding season tickets for over 40 years. The Celebration of Life Service for John McIlwee will be held on Friday, April 13th at 2:00pm at the Douglas County Fairgrounds in Kirk Hall, 500 Fairgrounds Rd., Castle Rock, CO 80104. John's favorite desserts will be served. There will also be an opportunity for those who would like to share stories and sentiments during the celebration. Memorial contributions can be made in John's honor to Urban Peak Colorado Springs, 423 E. Cucharras St., Colorado Springs, CO 80903 (719) 630-3223. ""John McIlwee retiring as head of Urban Peak"" LINK TO ARTICLE - gazette.com/john-mcilwee-retiring-as-head-of-urban-peak/article/111713 Please share your memories of John and condolences with his family by signing the guestbook below.