LeRoy David Dies, Jr.

LeRoy D. Dies Jr., of Castle Rock, passed away on Friday, December 8, 2017 at Parker Adventist Hospital surrounded by his loving family at the age of 69. Born on September 2, 1948 he was the son of the late LeRoy Sr. and Evelyn Dies. LeRoy grew up and graduated high school in Hastings, Nebraska, and went on to attend the University of Nebraska. He was drafted into the U.S. Army on October 15, 1969, and served as a Combat Infantryman with the First Cavalry Division, Company A, 2nd Battalion, 5th Brigade in both Vietnam and Cambodia during his tour of duty. He received 2 Bronze Stars for Heroism, Combat Infantryman’s Badge, Combat Air Medal, Presidential Unit Citations, and the Purple Heart. He received the Purple Heart as a result of being wounded during a fire fight while his platoon was overtaking a Viet Cong bunker complex. He married Patricia Lemkau on May 26, 1973 and together they share 44 years of marriage. They were blessed with one son, A.J. Dies. LeRoy was a licensed Mental Health/Substance Abuse Counselor for 33 years, operating his private practice for the last 9 years in Centennial. He was a dedicated husband, father, coach, and counselor who loved watching the Boston Red Sox and spending time with his family. He is survived by his wife, Pat Dies of Castle Rock; his son, A. J. Dies & partner Lilly Pina-Sanchez of Aurora; and his sister, Ginny Ware of Hastings, Nebraska. A Celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, January 6, 2018 at 11am at Horan & McConaty Funeral Home, 11150 E. Dartmouth Ave., Aurora, CO 80014