Thomas Grimshaw

Thomas T. Grimshaw, age 90, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 7, 2023, after a lengthy challenge with Alzheimer’s.

Tom is survived by his beloved wife Colette, Sons, Scott, Steve (Wendy)

Shane (Kimberly) and daughters Lynn Shaw, Lisa, (Tony) Fox, as well as eight grandchildren and eight great grandchildren.

Born in Minneapolis, Tom received his law degree from Northwestern University in 1956. Following law school, he moved his family to Colorado, because, like many others, he wanted to experience the new adventures and opportunities in the West. He began his legal career with Calkins, Kramer, Grimshaw and Harring which later became Grimshaw & Harring.   The firm developed legal expertise in local government with an emphasis on the development, funding, and construction of infrastructure, as well zoning and special districts.   He was one of a few business leaders who shared their collective visions over 40 years to tackle Denver’s challenges with water, transportation, land use, planning, zoning, and other needs contributing to Denver’s expansive future.  He helped guide Highlands Ranch, Denver Tech Center, and the T-Rex project just to name a few.

Tom was committed to a lifetime of service to his community.  His contributions were many, the following are a few: He served two terms in the Colorado General Assembly as a State Representative and sponsored the Colorado Housing Act. He also conceived the idea of forming the Special District Association of Colorado. He chaired the Denver Partnership, the Colorado Housing Finance Authority, Brothers Redevelopment, Exempla, Colorado Community College, and a Life Member of the Uniform Law Commission.

Tom was an active member of the Denver Athletic Club for 62 years where he could be found doing his workout routines almost daily.

Tom loved the classic country way.  From reading Max Brand and Louis L’Amour to listening to Hank Williams, Ray Price, Marty Robbins, and Tom Paul Glaser.   There was a song for every occasion, and he was always happy to sing a few bars.  However, what mattered the most were his relationships.  He loved being with his wife Colette, and his children remembering the many trips taken around the world.  He enjoyed frequent visits with his friends often setting up a breakfast, lunch, or dinner at local dives just to get their reaction.  Tom was a kind and humble man who succeeded at being a good husband, father, and friend.  He will be missed and remembered fondly by many.

Celebration of Life will be held Thursday, February 23, 2023, 11:30 AM at the Denver Athletic Club, 1325 Glenarm Place, Denver, CO  303-534-1211.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Thomas T. Grimshaw Endowed Scholarship Fund, c/o Foundation for Colorado Community Colleges, 9101 East Lowry Boulevard, Denver, CO 80230