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Keli McGregor Obituary
Detective Rick Wall said two of McGregor's associates couldn't get in touch with him and that someone entered his room at The Grand America Hotel in downtown Salt Lake City and found the 48-year-old McGregor unconscious Tuesday morning.
Police were called about 9 a.m. MDT and emergency workers arrived on the scene and were unable to revive him.
"There are no signs of foul play. ... Based on the initial investigation (police and fire officials) did not see anything suspicious," Wall said. "There is nothing suspicious. At this point it would look like it was some sort of a natural cause or something along those lines."
Wall said the investigation has been turned over to the medical examiner's office, which will determine the cause and time of death.
The Rockies said McGregor was on a business trip with team chairm an and CEO Charlie Monfort and executive vice president Greg Feasel.
"Words cannot describe the level of shock and disbelief that we all are feeling this morning at the loss of Keli," Charlie Monfort said in a statement. "Our thoughts, our prayers are with Lori and the entire family as we all try to cope and understand how such a tragic loss could occur with such a wonderful man."
McGregor is survived by his wife, Lori, three daughters and a son.
Chief Medical Examiner for Utah Todd Grey told The Associated Press on Tuesday that state law says the records of the medical examiner are considered confidential. He said that his office cannot comment on the specifics of any case without a release from the next of kin.
"On behalf of Major League Baseball, I am very saddened by the sudden and unexpected passing of Keli McGregor," commissioner Bud Selig said. "As President of the Colorado Rockies, Keli was one of our game's rising young stars. He was a great a thlete and equally great as a baseball administrator. He was also a great human being. All of baseball will miss him. I offer my condolences and deepest sympathies to his family, friends and the Rockies ballclub."
McGregor was in his 17th season with the Rockies, his ninth as club president. He began his career with the Rockies in October 1993 as senior director of operations. He was promoted to senior vice president in 1996 and executive vice president in 1998.
McGregor went from a walk-on to a second-team All-American tight end in 1984 at Colorado State, where he ranks fifth on the school's all-time receptions list. McGregor was selected by the Denver Broncos in the fourth round of the 1985 NFL draft. He played for the Broncos, Colts and Seahawks during his brief pro career.
He joined the Rockies in 1993 after a four-year stint as an associate athletic director at the University of Arkansas. He also was an assistant football coach for two years at the University of Florida from 1988-89, where he earned his Master's degree in education with an emphasis on athletic administration.
McGregor, who was born in Primgahr, Iowa, was voted to Colorado State's all-century team in 1992 and was named to the CSU Hall of Fame in 1996.
Copyright © 2010 The Associated Press
70 Entries
Owen Kelly
June 6, 2010
Dear Mrs. McGregor,
I was fortunate enough to know Keli when I played football at the University of Arkansas. I kept up with his career and his family through the years. He was truly the epitome of a role model for the young men he was around, during a time when they desperately need one. A smart and energetic man who regards his family as his greatest accomplishment.
I am just one of many that have been positively affected by Keli and his guidance.
I wish I could think of more to write, but for some moments in life there are no words.
I hope your family's heartache turns into wonderful memories. Memories can't be taken from you.
Owen L. Kelly, M.D.
Mel Fullmer
June 2, 2010
I was saddened to hear of Keli's passing. I hope your family can find some happiness in remembering all the great times you had with him. I still remember him when he played football for CSU against BYU. He just stood out on the field. He was a special player.
I only met Keli a couple of times, and I think he was one of the finest men I ever met. I loved hearing him talk about baseball and his work with the Rockies. I'm sure the Rockies will miss him, but his Legacy will live on. I'm sure he's looking over you with a heart full of love.
April 30, 2010
With deepest sympathy to the McGregor Family. Cindy (Aurora, CO)
Holly
April 29, 2010
I was so saddened to read of the death of Mr. McGregor. Whenever we lose a loved one it is too soon, but when it happens to one so young, it is particularly tragic. In very difficult times I have found comfort from the knowledge that God does understand our pain, even when know one else can. 2 Cor. 1:3,4 tells us that He is the God of all comfort and will comfort us in all our tribulations. I hope these words help you to get through today, and hope tomorrow will be a little better. Sincerely, a friend.
How you can show support
Sallie
April 28, 2010
To the Family of Keli Mcgregor: I sent you a sympathy message, however, I can't find it in the guest book. I don't know why it wasn't printed. Maybe my candle will reach you in this time of sorrow
alice
April 28, 2010
please accept my deepest sympathy.I hope you can find some comfort in knowing that God cares for you. (1Peter5:7)
Aimee Stringer-Daniel
April 27, 2010
I am deeply sorry for your loss. Keli's parents used to babysit me (25+ years ago) and I remember Keli as a very outgoing and kind young man. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you! God will watch over your family in this time of sadness.
April 27, 2010
Jesus Christ is the Resurrection and the life. Those exercising faith in him will come to life. What a wonderful hope we have. may you find joy in the promises of our Lord Christ Jesus.
Kelly Rogers
April 27, 2010
I am so sorry for you loss! My thoughts and prayers are with you!
Cheryl
April 27, 2010
So sorry for your loss that words can not describe. The Rockies have lost a good person.
Meme
April 26, 2010
The Mcgregor Family,
We are so deeply sorry to hear about your loss.
May you receive an outpouring of love and support
at this most difficult time. Please remember these
promising words held out at acts 17:31 to see your
dear loved one again.
Dean Weber
April 26, 2010
Every time we would talk over the years, Keli never failed to both ask about my family and the folks here at Arkansas and would always tell me about how you and the kids were doing even if we hadn't gotten to that yet.
Lori, when we would visit about any health issues in the family, obviously he was extremely concerned. But, never was he as happy as when those issues were resolving positively...he was almost giddy with pleasure.
Frank, Norm and I will plan to visit at the appropriate time. Certainly you know how much we all care and love you.
Dean
Hayley Brooks
April 25, 2010
I have great memories of Keli growing up with his kids and babysitting them. Lori, Jordan, Taylor, Landri and Logan, you have all been the greatest neighbors and have always been such a loving respectful family. Keli will be deeply missed and thought of everyday for the rest of our lives.
When Jordan and I used to play on a softball team as kids I remember looking over and seeing Keli and my Dad (Mike Brooks) standing behind the fence cheering us on and laughing because he made my Dad look so small. As they stood there in there work suits talking I remember thinking that Keli was the tallest man in the world as he rest his elbows over the top of the fence.
As I got older and began to babysit the kids, and enjoy your "back to school" parties in your back yard every year, I got to know all of you more and more as a family. Keli has always been fair, fun, and loving towards me. He would go out of his way to sat hello and ask me how I was doing and what new things I had done since the last time I saw him. It seemed as I got older ad started driving I would always run into him as he was leaving for work and always stopped to say hi.
Keli's appreciation for life and the neverending love for all of you always showed through his smile and hard work. I miss him very much. Keli will be remembered in everyones hearts who met him, but also in the many great memories he has left us with that will never be forgotten.
Today was Keli's funeral. As I sat there behind home plate At Coor's Field with my family and all our friends and neighbors, none of us could hold back the tears of sadness we felt. But one thing was for sure and that is that there were no regrets and we all trusted in God to take care of Keli.
Lori, Jordan, Taylor, Landri, and Loges, I love you and pray for you everyday. I pray for your strength and I know that with the strength and power of God you can all live, laugh and love more and more for all the years to come with the memories of an amazing husband and Daddy.
God is always on your side, loving you all for keeping faith in him...and trusting Him. You are the most beautiful family .
I love you, May Keli rest in peace. One day you will be your Daddy again and we all know he will be waiting right there with God to pick you all up into his big arms and hold you for eternity.
Much love,
Hayley Craighead Brooks
Robin McDonald (Bright)
April 25, 2010
Lori, my heart goes out to you and your children ... Keli's children. I have memories of sitting on the circle with Keli in kindergarten and then going through high school in the same graduating class. I know that you and Keli have a true high school sweetheart story. I know that Keli is in the loving arms of our Heavenly Father and that he was greeted with a "Well done my good and faithful servant." May it comfort you to know that he is in a much better place. I hope and pray that God will hold you and your family in the palm of His hand through your grief. God Bless!!
Robin McDonald (Bright)
April 25, 2010
My deepest sympathy to Lori, your children, and the rest of Keli's family. I have been trying to think of what to say ever since Tuesday. Wow!! I think back to "circle time" wih Keli in kindergarten and going all the way through our school years together. Of course, in junior high and high school, we all went our separate ways. I do know, though, that Keli was one of a kind. He will be missed in a huge way ... here on earth. To know that he is now in the loving arms of our Lord and Savior is of some comfort to you, I'm sure. His work here with us, is done and God has smiled on Keli and said, "Well done ...." Lori, may God comfort you and your children and, Keli, rest in peace. You will be greatly missed!!
April 25, 2010
keli, you will be missed. God Bless
Robin McDonald (Bright)
April 25, 2010
To Lori and all of Keli's family .... I have been pondering what I could possibly say to you. All I can come up with is what an amazing person we have lost. I've known Keli since kindergarten and looking back over the years, knowing that we all go our separate ways in junior high and high school, Keli never passed judgement on anyone,and was very humble about his successes. I feel honored to say that I grew up with Keli and I still can't believe he is gone. I do know that, without a doubt, he is in the loving arms of our Lord and Savior. May God comfort all of you and guide you through what, I'm sure, is the hardest thing you have had to face. Rest in peace, Keli and God Bless you, Keli's loved ones.
April 25, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Susan Nagle
April 25, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Cathy Rivera
April 25, 2010
Lori, I am deeply sorry for your loss. I pray comfort for your family. Know that Keli was loved world wide by many and his memory will live in our hearts forever.
April 24, 2010
It was obvious to all who knew Keli, he was an extraordinary man of God! May he rest in peace and may, you the family know this too! Our support and prayers are with you always in this time of loss. The Byl Family at Faith Lutheran Church, Golden, Co
Jayne Byl
April 24, 2010
May you all rest in the peace to know that Keli was a walking example unto us all! Only wish I could have known him better and also your amazing family! Know that you have our utmost prayer and support always. I will be singing praises on Sunday! Wish I could be at the memorial! The Byl Family at Faith Lutheran Church and Golden, Colorado
June DeVoto
April 24, 2010
Dear Lori,
I was so sorry to hear of the loss of your wonderful husband, Keli. John told me of it after he read about it in the news, and it is a terrible loss for you and your famlly and so many people. Julie lovingly sent me this site to be able to send my condolences to you. My thoughts and prayers are with you, Lori.
The Turner Family
April 24, 2010
We would like to extend our condolences to the family of Keli McGregor. May the "God, the Father of tender mercies and all comfort" ease the pain during this very difficult time.
Julie Anne DeVoto
April 24, 2010
Dearest Lori, the news made it around the world and we mourn with you all!!! Che la sua luce vi fa sempre compania anche nella sua assenza!! Julie Anne DeVoto (Siena Italy)
Bob Voelkel
April 24, 2010
I have know all the McGregors (not the kids) for over 30 years. God Bless you, Lori!
Kathy Berry Burrows
April 23, 2010
My deepest sympathies to Lori and the kids. Keli will be missed, what a pleasure it it was to know him since elementary school and to grow up with him. Rest in peace Keli, you are with God now, what a peaceful place to be.
ted smith
April 23, 2010
I don't know you mrs. mcgregor but my condolences go out to you and your family for your loss.Im not sure if your husband is the same keli mcgregor I knew for I went all through my grade school years with a keli mcgregor at slater elemintry in lakewood colorado
KEN&MARY O'DANIEL
April 23, 2010
WE ARE SENDING OUR LOVE,PRAYERS,&CONDOLENCES TO THE MCGREGOR FAMILY,FRIENDS,&ALL WHO KNEW MR. MCGREGOR.
April 22, 2010
I am a Baptist Cristian however I love my husband and two (2) boys very much. I love God more however I know that in a time like this you have your questions and doubts as it is so very painful and you miss Keli so much. I am without words as just this weekend I attended a funeral of a wonderful friend of mine who was only 57 years old.
If there is anything I can leave with you is to look at "I wish you enough" by Bob Perks.
May you, and your children, in due time feel beter. God Bless and know that your family is in my prayers.
From Virginia
Christa
April 22, 2010
You will be missed! My Prayers go out to your family!
Becky Klis
April 22, 2010
I will miss seeing you at coors field..17 years..I loved knowing such a giant in more ways than height. My husband had much respect and friendship for you, my son Blake was so thankful that you made it possible for him and his dad to go to the World Series. Your missed and we will continue to pray and give any care possible to your family. We will continue to befriends for your family.
Mike, Becky,Brittney, Blake and Johnny Klis
Chele
April 22, 2010
My Condolence to the family,......God is GOOD.......Trust in the Lord, he will see you through.....
C.W.
April 22, 2010
Dear Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you during your time of grief. May his memories continually bring you comfort in all the days ahead. He was truly a very special person. God bless each and every one of you.
Craig & Susie Donaldson
April 22, 2010
Our thoughts are with you coach. None of us will ever forget Keli and what he meant to Colorado.
Ledbetter Family
April 22, 2010
To the Family:
Although Keli was a public figure and will be missed by all whose lives he touched, none is affected as much as the family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you regarding your sudden and great loss.
May the God of all comfort continue with you and provide the necessary strength for you to cope with this tragedy. He knows your pain and promises to be "near to those that are broken at heart and those who are crushed in spirit he saves."
SUSAN ELLIOTT
April 21, 2010
MAY GOD BLESS YOU NOW YOUR IN HIS CARE MAY GOD SUSTAIN THE FAMILY THROUGH THIS TIME OF GRIEF AND SORROW BUT GOD PICKS THE BEST ROSES FOR HIS NEEDS
joe frye
April 21, 2010
thinking of you head coach mcgregor - keli is awesome and we are all proud of him as we are always of you too .. best regards from the arvada west days.
Campanella Family
April 21, 2010
Although I never had the honor of meeting Keli McGregor, his leaving so early and so many of his family behind is a true loss to Colorado Sports. Having known his father Brian at Arvada West as a student of Brians, our hearts and prayers go out to Keli's family.
April 21, 2010
our hearts and prayers go out to keli and especially to lori and the kids...keli was an absolute class act and a wonderful man in our dealings and we are deeply saddened by his passing...to lori and the kids our deepest sympaties, condolences and love...mike malin and everyone at grand auto
Rev. Michael Ford
April 21, 2010
The last time that I saw Keli was forty one years ago when I played for his Dad at Arvada West. However, I've followed his career from afar. I know that it was obvious that Keli wanted his life to make a difference and he did. What a great addition to the Mcgregor family legacy. To his wife and children, and to "Coach", our prayers are that our Lord will comfort you in His arms.
April 21, 2010
May the God of all comfort be with the family in your time of sorrow. Our Heavenly Father assures us that He will wipe out every tear from our eyes, and death will be no more. I offer my sincere condolences to you all.
Carol Glasson-Fiore
April 21, 2010
God is there to help you all through your painful loss, so talk to him. He is there to give you strength and hold you up, so lean on him.
God will take care of Keli now so trust him.
Bless the family and friends of Keli McGregor.
Carol - Class of 1970 AWHS
Thomas Kanard
April 21, 2010
It was a sad moment when I read the sports page this morning, of the passing of one of my former students that played QB for me at Alameda Jr high in Jefferson Co. Col. My thoughts and prayers go out to Lori and Children. Keli was a great individual and will be missed by many that he came into contact with. May God have blessings on his family. Coach Kanard
Susan Johnson-Benke
April 21, 2010
I cannot believe the pain the family must be in - my prayers and thoughts are with you.
Jaynellyn Kilgallon
April 21, 2010
My Thoughts and prayers,Special Angel know watch over you!
April 21, 2010
May God grant you the peace of heart, so you can cope with your loss.
April 21, 2010
Dear McGregor family - May those blessings and special memories of the times you spent together with Keli help you through this very difficult time. May God hold you in his heart. Anthony - Art for Life Foundation
Jodi
April 21, 2010
Thoughts and Prayers go out to his wife and kids, friends and family!! May you know you have a special angle to watch over you. May your memories bring you peace and comfort!!
Ryan Ashley
April 21, 2010
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. I hope that the scripture at Jon 5:28,29 can be of some comfort.
April 21, 2010
My thoughts are with the family and how painful it is to lose your loved one. Please accept my deepest sympathy. May God's love and comfort be with all the family and friends.
“For this is the will of my Father, That everyone that beholds the Son and exercises faith in him should have everlasting life, and I will resurrect him at the last day.” John 6:40
April 21, 2010
May God bless this family with comfort, strength, and peace.
Celeste Singleton
April 21, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
lfs
April 21, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
harry maxwell
April 21, 2010
all fans of the national pastime mourn your loss.god bless your family
Tom Gooldy
April 21, 2010
Keli was a great man who loved God, his family and his friends! We miss you!
April 20, 2010
THIS IS A SHOCK TO ALL. OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH HIS FAMILY.
April 20, 2010
I send my deepest sympathy to the entire family..Pat M. Danville, Va.
jan farmer
April 20, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Sheila Smith
April 20, 2010
Rest in Peace Keli. God bless the family at this sad time.
Rosemarie
April 20, 2010
My sympathies to Mr. McGregor's family. May God's many wonderful promises for the future bring you comfort.
LINDA CELSOR
April 20, 2010
I AM SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS. OUR DAUGHTER WAS KILLED IN A CAR ACCIDENT IN 1980, ON MY BIRTHDAY, DEC. 1. AS A NON-WORKING MOM, I HAD TO CHANGE MY NORMAL. I COMMUTED TO COLLEGE FOR 3 YEARS AND GRADUATED WITH A BA IN EDUCATION AT 50. THIS WAS A COUPLE OF YEARS AFTER OUR TRAGEDY. I CAN TRULY SAY NOW THAT I DON'T ACHE SO MUCH ANYMORE. I THINK OF HER DAILY AND HEALING IS HARD WORK. YOU HAVE TO WALK AND JUST TALK OUTLOUD TO GOD. YOU HAVE TO PRAY FOR STRENGTH TO GET THROUGH THE MOMENT. I AM SO SORRY FOR YOUR PAIN, FOR YOUR LOSS, FOR THAT HOPELESS FEELING. GRIEF IS LIKE A DISEASE AND THE ONLY CURE IS A VERY STRONG FAITH IN GOD AND THE ASSURANCE THAT YOU WILL BE WITH YOUR CHILD AGAIN. IT HAS BEEN 30 YEARS AND I STILL HAVE HER HAIR BRUSH IN MY THINGS. JUST CAN'T GIVE THAT UP. I HAVE MET MANY CHILDREN ON MY TEACHING JOURNEY, BUT NEVER ONE LIKE OUR MARY JO. SHE WAS TRULY UNIQUE AND A GIFT FROM GOD FOR ALMOST 16 YEARS. SOMEDAY I WILL SEE THROUGH THE GLASS CLEARLY, BUT FOR NOW, I MUST TRUST JESUS TO KEEP HIS PROMISES. IN LOVE, LINDA CELSOR
Deborah G
April 20, 2010
I extend my deepest condlonces to the family and friends of Keli McGregor; Regardless of age how young or old it is always davasting when we lose a love one to death. With God's love and the support of those who care so much, may you find the comfort and strength that will help you now and through the days ahead. 1Peter 5:7... tell us to "throw all your anxiety upon him, because he care for us."
Antonio
April 20, 2010
Dear Family of Kele M. I am so sorry for your lost. Let me share a scripture with you at James 4:8 were it says draw close to god and he will draw close to you.
Suzie Horn
April 20, 2010
With Deepest Sympathy
April 20, 2010
Rest in Peace Keli Mccgregor.
April 20, 2010
So sorry for your loss.
Victoria VZj
April 20, 2010
sincer condolences
to his family..
weve lost a sports
icon favorite..
May he rest with peace
In memory of ~Keli McGregor~
Henryk Zaleski
April 20, 2010
May you rest in peace.
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