Richard Joseph Sheil

Richard Joseph Sheil, a native of Colorado, a loving husband, father, and grandfather was unexpectedly taken from us on April 26, 2020 at the age of 64, while enjoying a motorcycle ride in Parker, Colorado.

Richard was born in Denver, Colorado on March 7, 1956 and was the only child of Emerlinda and Joseph Sheil. Emerlinda, a 25 year employee with Mountain Bell, and Joseph, a switchman with the Union Pacific Railroad raised Richard in Denver across from Huston Lake Park. This modest and close knit family traveled together, shared a love for the Catholic faith, and explored the outdoors.

Richard grew up in parochial school (Catholic) and graduated from Mullen High School in 1974. Richard attended college at Mesa State in Grand Junction, Colorado, graduating with a certification as an Electrical Lineman in 1976. Richard also attended Metro State College and studied Industrial Arts.

A chance encounter during a night in Denver at After the Gold Rush would introduce Richard to Patricia on December 30, 1975. The following night, New Year’s Eve would be their first official date and this would blossom into an eternal love story. Richard and Patricia dated for 3 years before Patricia pushed him into a jewelry store and “insisted” he think about his commitment. He would propose the night before Patricia’s college graduation in March of 1979, marry her on August 11, 1979, and celebrate their 40th wedding anniversary with a family trip to Disney World – a surprise trip from their children.

Richard worked for the City of Arvada starting in 1978 and would retire on May 7, 2013 fulfilling a promise with a co-worker that they would retire on the same day. Richard had a passion for Motorsports that began at the age of 12 when he saw his neighbor tow home a race car.This passion would continue the rest of his life. He began racing as a driver in 1980 and competed in numerous series including bombers, street stocks, figure-8’s, Sportsman, and Late Models. He would continue driving for 14 years, capturing numerous wins, a Figure-8 championship in 1991, and earning the respect of his competitors and those around him.

Richard and Patricia welcomed their first child, son Christopher on August 2, 1984. They would welcome their second child, daughter Devan (Daddy’s Little Girl) on November 19, 1988. Richard was nervous to become a parent but it was obvious from the start that this was a natural role for him. As a father he showed his children the same love, passion, devotion, and ethics that Emerlinda and Joseph instilled in him. This love has continued into the next generation as Richard and Patricia have seen both of their children marry and have been able to share in experiences with their grandsons, Carson and Cameron.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents Emerlinda and Joseph Sheil and in-laws Patricia and Gary McDonnell. He is survived by Patricia Sheil, his wife of 40 years: son Christopher and wife Kate Sheil, grandchildren Carson and Cameron Sheil, daughter Devan and husband Jeremy Moorehead.

Richard’s priority was his family. He was a kindhearted, fair, loving, and honest man who was a provider and perfect example of what a husband, father, and grandfather should be. His humor and contagious smile would light up a room and he was always willing to help anyone in need. He will be loved and missed by so many but remembered through a lifetime of memories.