Verl Ray Southwick, age 89, of Westminster, Colorado passed away at his home on Friday January 15th, 2021.

Verl was born on July 3rd, 1931 in Kingsley, Iowa to Earl and Elsie Southwick. During his adolescence, he remained in Kingsley and developed a love of sports. He lettered in football, basketball, track and baseball. As a senior he became the class president.

After graduating high school, Verl continued his education at Buena Vista College in Iowa. He continued his participation in sports by playing basketball and baseball; and playing semi-pro baseball during the summers. While attending college, he was drafted by the Cleveland Indians due to his success in baseball. However, as soon as receiving his Bachelor of Arts degree, he was drafted into the U.S. Army. During his time of service, he was stationed at Fort Wainwright in Fairbanks, Alaska.

Later in life, he became employed at Armour Meats and then Safeway. He remained a sports enthusiast and lover of crossword puzzles until his final days, but most important of all, was his steadfast love and devotion to his family.

Verl is survived by his children Mike (Lorrie) Southwick, Dan (Patty) Southwick, Anita Southwick, Leah Forbes, son-in-law Ron Curry; his grandchildren Rachael, Justin, Jordan, Kristen, Brendan, D.J., Casey, Addison, Hillary, Tanner, Joshua, Ethan. He is also survived by 6 great grandchildren and sister Hazel James.

Verl is preceeded in death by his wife Jeanette; daughter Monica Curry; grandson Ryan Curry; parents Earl and Elsie Southwick; sister Dorothy McCann; and his brothers Harlan and Don Southwick.

A  recitation of the Rosary will take place on Tuesday, June 22nd, at 10:30am at Guardian Angels Catholic Church, followed by an 11am Memorial Service at the same location. The committal service will be held at Fort Logan National Cemetery at 1pm the same day, followed by a reception at the Southwick residence.

Memorial Donations can be made in honor of Verl’s late wife Jeanette to the Rocky Mountain ALS association: webco.alsa.org