Richard Dontje

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Richard Ira Dontje, also known as Dick, of Broomfield, CO. Dick was born on October 18, 1929 to Fredrick and Mary (Saxe) Dontje in Manton, Michigan. Dedicating much of his life to serving his country, Dick enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1951 as a Jet Propulsion Mechanic. Dick was stationed in Japan from 1960-63, Taiwan from 1968-1969 and was sent on a 10 day mission to Vietnam. In December 26, 1951 Dick married Marlene Dobak and they raised four children together. He retired at the rank of Master Sargent in 1972 and moved to Broomfield, Colorado with his family. In 1978, Dick started Broomfield's first taxi service with just two cabs, and he ran the company until selling it in 1992. After retiring from work, Dick and Marlene enjoyed traveling across the United States together until her passing in 2012 and 60 years of marriage. On January 4, 2023 Dick passed away peacefully in his sleep, surrounded by his loving family. He is pre-deceased by his wife Marlene and his daughter Sheryl Gallagher. He is survived by his children Linda J (Emil) Sheron, Gene Dontje and Terry (Cynthia) Dontje, his grandchildren Kristin, Alexander, Phillip, Rebecca and Stella, 6 great-grandchildren, and his sister-in-law Shirley Case. Dick will be greatly missed by his family and friends, and he will always be remembered for his dedication to his country and his entrepreneurial spirit. May he rest in peace. Per Dick's wishes there will be no services.