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GRIER LAUGHLIN Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for GRIER LAUGHLIN
Sponsored by Friends of Grier Laughlin.
Pete Oberle
February 28, 2021
Grier came to mind today, as he often does. Seeing Lisa's recent post, clearly I'm not the only one. Can't believe it's been 10 years since his physical presence was last enjoyed, but he is certainly always with us. Grateful for that and to have shared so many years with him. Thank you, Grier, for the eternal gifts you've given us all.
Lisa Decker
February 17, 2021
I saw this come up today and my stomach dropped. I still miss Grier. It is so strange because he has been on my mind especially lately. I can still see Grier and my sister tip toeing across the swimming deck because they didn't want to get anything "ick" on their feet. I am really proud to have known Grier and will always have a special place for him in my heart.
Haley Henderson
October 19, 2011
Mrs. Laughlin,
I would like to start out by saying that I am very sorry for your loss. I know you don't know me and I'm sorry it took me so long to contact you, but I was the second car on the scene of the accident. I should have contacted you earlier because there is probably not much I can do for you anymore, but since I'm only 17 I had to really come to terms with everything myself before I could offer to you the answers to any questions you may have or just my recollection of the events. I understand if you don't want to talk to me but I would really like to talk to you if that's all right. After speaking to your kids that night I know you must be an amazing mom. I hope that I can help you in your healing process. My prayers continue to be with you.
Doug Gayer
April 20, 2011
To Grier's family,
I was devastated to learn of Grier's passing today from his long-time friend Scott Cohen. Though its been 20 years since we swam together, I still remember the rail thin backstroking machine that put bigger, stronger and older kids to shame. His gifts in the pool only paled in comparison to the gifts he possessed in character. He ALWAYS had a smile and a laugh and was never too big a star for those not quite as fast.
This tragedy strikes especially close to home for me as the circumstances in Grier's passing were eerily similar to a car accident I was in years ago. I know the hurt you are living through and I want to assure you life will go on. The pain will fade over time but the good memories will always live.
With a very heavy heart, I want to offer you my sincerest condolences.
Doug Gayer - Foothills Swim Team
Jen Miano
March 29, 2011
Grier was an amazing person and not a day goes by that I don't think of him. Even though I didn't see him often I enjoyed many funny phone calls with him- while trying to track Karen down. He had an amazing smile and I will always remember the many laughs we had together usually at my expense. Thank you Grier for loving my best friend with all your heart... you are in our hearts forever and will be deeply missed.
Love this picture <3
March 29, 2011
Such a WONDERFUL friend!!
Jean Martinez
March 26, 2011
March 18, 2011
I remember babysitting Bradford and Grier when we lived next door to you. He had such a wonderful personality. My heart goes out to all of you, with great sympathy. Grier will always be remembered by Deanne and me as a great kid.
Sincerely,
Debby Pritchard Brinkman
Joel Cantalamessa
March 4, 2011
Just want to express our sincere condolences to the Laughlin family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Grier was a year younger than me at Creek, so I wasn't real close with him, but he was a super-nice guy that was loved by everyone he met.
Chad MacKendrick
February 28, 2011
I only knew Grier for a brief time. We played his team in tennis. I recently saw him at a friends b-day party and we made plans to connect and play mixed-doubles w/ our wives. You could tell Grier was special from the moment you met him. We are shocked and saddened by his passing - what a great guy.
Chad & Kim MacKendrick, Centennial, CO
Karen Brandner
February 28, 2011
All of us from The Broadmoor Hotel (particularly the Tennis Staff) wish to extend our sincerest sympathy to Karen and the family. Grier was such a wonderful guy and you were both such memorable tennis guests in the past year. Grier brought his zest for life onto the tennis court as I suspect he did with everything and everyone he touched. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
The Broadmoor Tennis Staff
Carol Castro
February 28, 2011
Karen - I pray for you and your family everyday. May God bless you and your family and give you strength. I love you..
Shari & Dan Sherwood
February 28, 2011
Karen,
We were devastated to hear about Grier and lucky to have known such a great person. Our thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Amy Erickson (Lin)
February 28, 2011
I was a friend of Grier in middle school and high school. I remember his love for swimming and his drive to succeed, but mostly I remember laughing a lot in class with him. I am so sorry for your loss. He will be cherished and missed.
Greer Hartswick-Darley
February 27, 2011
I met Grier in elementary school and kept up a bit with him for a few years, what an amazing man. My deepest sympathy goes out to his family. I always will think of his great smile and continue to smile on! We also shared our first names, I was "the other Greer", he was the 1st Grier I had ever met! Rest peacefully my friend.
Eileen & Maureen Murphy (Hoffmann & Batson)
February 27, 2011
Growing up in CO Swimming in the '80's meant knowing the Laughlin's. We swam with Grier's brother Brad and just remembering Mission Viego, the van rides to practice, the road trips to Albuquerque & Lincoln...makes us smile. Our hearts go out to the entire Laughlin family, may your memories of Grier provide you comfort and may God Bless and watch over you and your loved ones forever. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Lori Bare
February 26, 2011
I know for certain that we never lose the people we love, even to death. They continue to participate in every act, thought and decision we make. Their love leaves an indelible imprint in our memories. We find comfort in knowing that our lives have been enriched by having shared their love. Sending our thoughts and prayers to you and your family. Grier will be greatly missed.
Laura Stevenson
February 26, 2011
Grier was my swim coach at Arapahoe Lake. I am truly sorry to hear about his passing. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.
Karyn Bysshe Vella
February 25, 2011
Karen - I am still at a loss for words and have been since Ben wrote to us. You and your beautiful children are in my prayers. I met Grier when we arrived at Dartmouth in 1992 and we swam together for 4 years, but it was his uncanny ability to call a spade a spade and make me laugh in the most fragile of moments that I will never forget. May your memories of him be as strong as he was and your hearts as full as his was. With much sympathy and love from the "east coast" (categorical commentary he often added with a smile). I will miss him.
February 25, 2011
My son, Bill Bolster, was a great friend of Grier's. They became friends while Bill was coaching for AAA and kept the friendahip going in spite of the age difference. I was never fortunate enought to meet Grier but knew how much Bill thought of him. Cherry, I am so sorry that you and your husband have become members of this club of parents losing a child. We aren't supposed to lose a child. My deepest sympathy to you and all of your family, Grier's wife and children.
Hannah Bolster Mesa, As.
Taran Lent
February 25, 2011
I attended both Cherry Creek High School and Dartmouth College with Grier. He was a great man and friend. My thoughts are with the Family and I hope the warm memories of Grier sustain you during this time of grief.
Lesley Gibson
February 25, 2011
Karen - I am so sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you and your beautiful children during this difficult time. May God bless you all.
Christina Fakharzadeh
February 25, 2011
I have had the pleasure of knowing Grier since 1984 when we swam together on AAA. Even from a young age, Grier was always kind and positive, and he served as an inspiration to all. I can remember his blue Swedish goggles and the smile that flashed across his face when he finished a race, and I will always remember him jammin' to Steve Miller on his yellow Walkman. Beyond our childhood, I visited Grier at Dartmouth and most recently had the pleasure of meeting his beautiful wife and gorgeous children. My heart grieves for his entire family, and my memories of Grier will remain with me forever.
AAA Swim Team 1991
Christina Fakharzadeh
February 25, 2011
Sarah Carter
February 25, 2011
Words can hardly express the pain and sadness we all feel. Grier was an amazing friend, husband and father. May God watch over your precious family during this most difficult time.
Steve Richer
February 25, 2011
I met Grier in 1982 when I was 9 years old, while visiting family in the States. I remember Grier as a great guy. One night, my cousins, sister and I cycled through a heavy thunderstorm in the dark to go and play Atari console with Grier and his brother! Great memories. I send my deepest condolences to his family and friends.
Christi Ellwanger
February 24, 2011
My thoughts and prayers are with you and the kids. I had the great pleasure of being Grier's Assistant at Merrill Lynch. What a wonderful man, he was always smiling. May God give you all the strength that you need during this very difficult time.
Chris and Michelle Landry
February 24, 2011
Karen and family,
Our family is shocked and saddened by the loss of Grier. We are blessed that our daughter McKenna shared a soccer season with Addison in the last few years. That's how we met you and Grier. I'll always remember him smiling, because I think that is all he ever did. Such a special family. I remember how friendly you were at the season ending party while our 1-yr old boy terrorized your home.
Last Wednesday I reconnected with Grier to investigate becoming an independent investment advisor, "leaving big brother" I think was his quote...and he was so gracious to set aside time, encouraging me like a great leader. I walked away from that meeting knowing he truly believed in taking good care of his clients. That resonated well with me. He loved his family and his work.
We will often think of you and pray the Lord holds you tight in His grip. Please let us know if there is anything we can do for you.
Craig Schlagbaum
February 24, 2011
Grier was my financial advisor for the last 6 years, but I consider him to be a friend as well. I spent a lot of time with him and could see what a great man he was. And he was a great mentor too. I am deeply sorry for his family, and I will never forget him. He was one of the most "real" people I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. May God bless he and his family. The world has lost a great man and father.
Dara Pristaw Sweatt
February 24, 2011
Grier swam for Dartmouth with my older brother and I would see them every night as their team got out of the pool and my team got into it. Grier always had a smile on his face and a funny movie quote for me. He was a genuinely great guy and he will be missed. His family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Summer Holm
February 24, 2011
I had the pleasure of watching Grier swim in so many swim meets and practices and he was such an outstanding swimmer and young man. He was such an inspiration to his high school and club teams and was the true definition of a sportsman. He was also helpful when I chaperoned those swim meets across the country. He will live in our hearts forever. My deepest sympathy to his family. We will miss his handsome smiling face.
Kama Sarkissian
February 24, 2011
Karen, I cannot express to you and your beautiful childrenhow terribly sorry I am for your tremendous loss. Grier was a truly great guy. I first met Grier when he was only 10 and I was thrown into his lane at swim team. He promptly taught me that he was the lane leader, even if he was swimming back and we were swimming freestyle! He was so fast and so fun to hang out with! And I was lucky to meet up with him again a few years ago. He was as funny as ever. You all will remain in our thoughts and prayers.
Wendy Christensen Hocker
February 24, 2011
Your life was cut all to short...you blessed so many...how swimming was such a large part of our families...my prayers are with your family...Wendy Christensen Hocker
February 24, 2011
For all the Laughlins: we are thinking of you. How lucky we were to know Grier for so long as both a Conquistador and a Pirate. He was always special. We are deeply saddened. Babette Hills, Wayne Caruolo, Griffin Caruolo and Rollin Hills Aurora CO
February 24, 2011
I did not know Grier but Karen was my sorority sister at Colorado State. I am sending prayers all the way from Cleveland for Karen and the family to get through this terrible time. God bless you and Im thinking of you.
Jaime Smith
February 24, 2011
I did not know Grier but Karen was my sorority sister at Colorado State. I am sending prayers all the way from Cleveland for Karen and the family to get through this terrible time. God bless you and Im thinking of you.
February 24, 2011
I did not have the opportunity to meet Grier myself, but the pain and sorrow my son is feeling tells me so much. My son had the privilege of playing on Grier's tennis team at CAC. He very much admired Grier and considered him a friend and mentor. I am thankful for the friendship, and welcome Grier provided to him. Please know that many who you will probably never meet, share in your grief and pray that God will extend to you the comfort and grace that only He can provide. Sarah Greenlaw
rebecca otto rhodee
February 24, 2011
Karen and children-
I am so sorry the loss of your husband and daddy. I never had the pleasure to meet him, but Krista spoke very highly of him. You and your family are in my prayers.
Stacy Mullikin
February 24, 2011
When you look back at your childhood - many of us have a family that comes to mind that defines a period of your life. For me it was the Laughlins and most of all Grier. Summers at Heather Ridge - carpooling every day to/from swimming - endless laughter with Brad/Lisa - leaving 2 seconds early behind him while swimming just to tap his feet. Pure, beautiful childhood innocence. Memories I will always cherish. Wishing great strength to all who have been touched by this tragedy. Grier was one of a kind.
Gretchen Noonan
February 24, 2011
Grier was a great person. I swam with him on AAA for many years and he was always a motivating and kind leader. He also was so kind to drive me home after Saturday practices and stop for donuts eventhough it was out of his way. He will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.
Courtney Holm
February 24, 2011
The world has truly lost a great person. Grier was smart, well-rounded, kind, a gentleman, and a fantastic swimmer. I swam and trained with Grier for many years and went to high school with him. His positive energy and playful nature will undoubtedly live on through his children. We are all better people for having known him. My thoughts and condolences are with the whole family, especially his wife and children.
Barbara Miller
February 24, 2011
I did not have the pleasure of knowing Grier personally. I do know the days to follow will be very difficutlt and want you to know that people will be praying for strength for you and your family.
Brenda McNulty
February 24, 2011
Karen, everyone at the office shares their deepest and most sincere condolences to you. We are here for you if you need anything. You and the family are in our thoughts and prayers. We are so sorry for the loss of such a great man like Grier. He will be missed. We love you Karen!
Jennifer Mccartie-Kent
February 23, 2011
My prayers are with Grier's family. I knew Grier when the family lived across the street from my Grandparents, the White's, on E Colorado Dr. I also went to school with him until I moved to California at the end of 9th grade. He was always such a nice guy. He will be missed.
Monika Bromley
February 23, 2011
Karen,
I am so sorry to hear what happened. I will continuously pray for you and the kids. Just remember that lots of people love you and will be there for you
Judie Pristaw
February 23, 2011
I am at a loss for words over this tragedy. Grier was my son's "big brother" on the Dartmouth Swim Team. I loved baking for them and feeding them at my house. I am fortunate to have seen him last summer in Hanover, NH. My prayers got out to his wife, children, parents and brother. This should not have happened!
February 23, 2011
To Grier's wife, children, parents, and brother,
Please know that caring thoughts and deepfelt sympathy are extended to you at this irreplaceable loss of an amazing man you are faced with. I knew Grier from the time he was a young swimming star through high school, shining a million dollar smile and lighting up the decks and water wherever he swam. I knew he was destined to become a successful husband, father, and family man. God took him far too soon. Thinking of you all, especially the Laughlins that I knew so well many years ago - his brother Brad and parents.
Cathy Drozda (Aurora Swim Club & Overland High School coach way back then)
Lisa Nelson-Driver
February 23, 2011
I knew Grier in elementary and middle school. Grier touched many lives and he will be missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
Debbie Iten
February 23, 2011
Grier was a wonderful husband, father and a generous spirit. Our heartfelt sympathy and prayers to Karen, the kids and his entire family. Words just cannot express our sadness. The world has lost an amazing man. We will continue to keep you all in our thoughts and prayers as you embrace your wonderful memories and seek to find some peace in the love that surrounds you now from your friends and family. All of our love, The Iten Family
Heather Lynn Williams
February 23, 2011
Grier, you were a great man, inspiring coach and good friend. Thank you for always supporting and encouraging me in life and on the EHS girls swim team. Since High School, when I think of the imprint you have left with me, I always hoped that you were happy, successful and fufilled in life. I always knew you would be a great husband and an awesome father. It is a blessing that your babies survived and I'm so deeply saddened that you are gone. You will be missed by everyone whose lives you touched, thank you for being in mine.
Heather Lynn Williams
February 23, 2011
Grier, you were an amazing man, inspiring coach and a great friend. I can't thank you enough for all your encouragement and support in life and on the EHS girls swim team. Thank you for always pushing me further and for all the good times at practices and meets. Since High School when I've thought of you and the imprint that you left on me, I've always hoped that you were successful, happy and fufilled in life. I knew you would make a great husband and awesome father. I'm so happy your babies are ok, and I'm so deeply saddened that you are gone. You will be missed dearly by all the lives that you touched. Thank you for being in mine. ...
Sanjuana Garcia
February 23, 2011
My prayers are with the family during this difficult time. I did not know Grier personally (work with Tom McDavid) but can imagine the void his death has left in the family. I pray that God will be with you always!
Dennis & Michelle Biondi
February 23, 2011
Our hearts and prayers go out to Karen, the kids, the Laughlins and the McDavid families
Kelli Ewing
February 23, 2011
I went to elementary school with Grier and remember him with fond memories. It is nice to hear how many lives he touched and what a legacy he leaves behind. Thoughts and prayers go out to his wife and children.
Dawn Sorensen-Tatro
February 23, 2011
My memories of Grier are from elementary school. He was a great person, with an awesome smile and will be missed. I pray for Grier's family especially Karen and the kids. May God be their rock along with the rest of the family during this very hard time.
Marla Gentry
February 23, 2011
When I think of Grier and the Laughlin family, I remember laughter. We had wonderful times together, carpooling to Heather Ridge and Mission Viejo and spending countless hours at swim meets. What a blessing to share those early years together! The strong, caring son, brother, husband, and father he became was obvious from early childhood. Our deepest sympathy to all of his family and friends. The world will miss him.
Bruce & Kara Zirpel
February 23, 2011
Our thoughts and prayers are with Grier's family during this difficult time.
Todd TeStrake
February 23, 2011
I swam with Grier on the Aurora Aquatic Academy swim team in the late 80s and early 90s. I remember him as a fierce competitor with a confident cockiness about him. Those traits obviously carried with him as he grew into an extraordinary human being. My thoughts and prayers are with his entire family.
Stacy Gentry Mullikin
February 23, 2011
When you look back at your childhood - many of us have a family that comes to mind that defines a period of your life. For me it was the Laughlins and most of all Grier. Summers at Heather Ridge
Jake Frisch
February 23, 2011
I remember the smile, and the sparkle in Grier's eyes. The memories of spending multipule long road trips to swim meets, and playing poker with skittles while waiting for events. Grier touched many lives in many special ways. I am blessed to have known him!
Coke Governski
February 22, 2011
"Grier was such an amazing man! His positive influence on many many children will never be fully realized. As my daughter's high school and club swim team coach, he truly excelled and was an inspiration. Always giving support and positive reinforcement, he gave his students pride and an invaluable sense of worth. My condolences go out to Karen and his family. He will be sorely missed."Coke Governski Aurora
Becky Johnson
February 22, 2011
I coached the Eaglecrest Girls Swim Team with Grier. Many memories of that group of girls and him. He and Karen took me to the hospital one night which in turn helped me discover my red wine allergy. He was a gentle leader with a big heart. We are praying for strength and support in this time of loss.
Bill Jager
February 22, 2011
I'm so very sorry to hear about Grier and our best wishes and prayers go out to his wife, his kids, his friends, and his extended swimming family in Colorado and beyond. I'm sure going to remember Grier, even today, as a full-of-life, fun, talented and inspiring leader who did great things and was someone to be looked up to by all.
It would have been great to know Grier after his HS years, but it really seems as though he had the life we would have expected and I doubt he changed much. Just an absolute joy to know and to coach.
The world has lost a great man and just know I am thinking of you all and wishing you the best. Hug those closest to you early and often and God Bless.
Coach Bill Jager (CCHS '91-'92)
Stephanie Niehoff
February 22, 2011
Karen: Thoughts, prayers and hugs being sent your way. Grier: to know you; even a little was an honor. Addison, Caroline and Grier: Hug your mommy extra tight tonight and flash those adorable smiles her way.
God Bless
Dr. Kurt Tsumura
February 22, 2011
I never had the opportunity to meet Grier. I swam with Brad at Overland and have nothing but great memories of that time of my life. Many thanks to Brad for being an awesome teammate and friend. I will be at the service to honor a great man and a wonderful family.
Lisa Decker
February 22, 2011
My memories of Grier go back to the 70's at Heather Ridge Country Club. My sister, Grier, Brad and I would make up plays on a tape recorder. Those summer days are such an important part of my childhood. I remember my sister and Grier hated to put their feet all the way down on the pool deck, so they would walk on their tippee toes. It is a memory that is stuck in my mind. I was so impressed that our "Grier Fish" as we called him grew up to be such an amazing man, husband and father. He will be truly missed.
Lisa Gentry Decker and family
Jeanie Roberts
February 22, 2011
Grier was my swim coach in high school. He was a very driven and supportive coach. His enthusiasm was contagious and his faith in me was always inspiring. I am so sorry for his family and hope they can be comforted by the fact that he was a great man. He will be missed.
David, Melinda, and Justin King
February 22, 2011
Words cannot express the sorrow that we feel for the entire Laughlin family. The loss of such a generous and kind person, son, husband, and brother is never forgotten. I pray that your pain is comforted with the knowledge that Grier was someone that we all aspire to be in life.
Brad / Kristen – Please call if we can do anything.
David King
February 22, 2011
Words cannot express the sorrow that we feel for the entire Laughlin family. The loss of such a generous and kind person, son, husband, and brother is never forgotten. I pray that your pain is comforted with the knowledge that Grier was someone that we all aspire to be in life.
Brad / Kristen – Please call if we can do anything.
David, Melinda, and Justin King
Jill Felix
February 22, 2011
I swam with Grier in High School and I always admired his speed, his intelligence and his art of leading. My heart goes out to you as you go through this time of loss. I am so sorry. I have been praying for you all day. With Love, Jill Felix (Chojnowski)
Carolyn and Madelyn Sestak
February 22, 2011
There are no words to express the sadness over this huge loss for your family. Our hearts just break for you. Maddie and I send our love to you and hugs all around.
The Miller Family
February 22, 2011
We will deeply love you and miss you always.
Michael McKenna
February 22, 2011
I remember Grier from High School swimming. He was a lot of fun to be around and a great athlete. From what I have read it appears that he turned out to be an even better man. I am very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with the Laughlin family during this terribly difficult time.
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