Joseph Calvin Lambert, Jr.

Joseph Calvin Lambert, Jr. February 26, 1945 - July 9, 2023

Joseph Calvin Lambert, Jr. passed away on July 9, 2023, at the age of 78 in Denver, CO. A loving father, grandfather and friend, he was known for his intelligence, wit, and kind heart.

Born on February 26, 1945, in Columbus, GA, Joe, as he was known, was the son of Dora McGehee Lambert and Major General Joseph Calvin Lambert, Sr. As the son of a career military officer, Joe dhad the privilege of experiencing a diverse upbringing in various cities across Europe and the United States. His thirst for knowledge led him to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where he earned a B.S. in Chemistry. Following his academic pursuits, he was commissioned as an officer in the United States Navy where he served with distinction. Later, he attended the Harvard Business School, where he obtained an M.B.A..

Joe's professional journey was filled with entrepreneurial endeavors and diverse business ventures. Joe was a leader in politics in Colorado whose counsel was sought by many candidates and elected officials.  He was elected Chairman of the Republican Party in Denver.  He made significant contributions to the State of Colorado, serving in notable positions in the Governor's Energy Office and the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment as Deputy Executive Director and CIO. His dedication and expertise in these roles made a lasting impact on the state and its citizens.

Included in his professional pursuits, Joe had a passion for collecting and dealing in rare stamps, becoming a respected philatelic expert with a nationwide following. He frequented professional stamp shows across the United States, indulging in his love for the art of stamp procurement. Joe also found joy in reading, playing bridge, following sports, and listening to music, particularly from the Doo-wop era.

Joe was a devoted father and took immense pride in his children's accomplishments. He shared his children  Joseph III (Holly) of Centennial, CO,  Joshua (deceased),  Jed (Jenny) of Manhattan Beach, CA and Kristin (Sam) Hendler of Needham, MA with his former wife and enduring friend Shirley Lambert. His grandchildren Lauren, Tyler, Teodoro, Elena, and Beaumont were a constant source of joy in his life.

Over the past 16 years, Joe found love and companionship with Kendall Sansing, who became his cherished partner. Alongside Kendall, her daughters, Jenn (Paul) Goldberg and Kathryn (Charlie Jones) Sansing and their families, adored Joe.  Joe and Kendall shared countless beautiful memories and experiences together, including travel excursions, cruises, road trips, family and friend gatherings, discovering their favorite restaurants, and attending many concerts and theater performances.

Joe was the quintessential Renaissance man; an old-school gentleman with a fun and generous spirit, who touched the lives of all who had the pleasure of knowing him. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, accomplishments and cherished memories that will forever be held dear by his family and friends.  May his soul find eternal peace. 

A service and celebration of Joe's life will be held in Denver in the fall, on a date to be determined. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Angel Eyes, an organization that supports families impacted by sudden infant loss.  Visit www.angeleyes.org, or send to Angel Eyes, marked in Honor of Joseph Lambert, to 1638 Pennsylvania Street, Denver, CO 80203.