Robert J. Ore

1936 - 2022

Ore, Robert J
10/10/1936 - 11/4/2022

Bob Ore, age 86, died quietly at his home in Heather Ridge early this month among family and friends, having encountered mounting health challenges in recent months. Bob had an interesting and diverse life, which included: working as a financial systems manager and steelworker at CF&I Steel in Pueblo; serving as an artillery officer in the Colorado National Guard; serving on the Pueblo School Board and as a State Representative for the Pueblo/Canon City area; owning and operating his own business, Resource Development and Management Systems, Inc.; championing light rail and improved bus service while serving on the Denver/Aurora Metro RTD Board; managing numerous United Way accounts throughout the Denver Metro area; and as a well-respected Cabinet Member for Governor Dick Lamm as Executive Director of the Colorado Department of Labor & Employment. While serving as a State Legislator, Bob was frequently successful in shepherding key, bi-partisan banking, employment, and rural economic development bills to successful passage. He was also one of the first elected officials from southern Colorado to endorse Dick Lamm's successful campaign for Governor in 1974. He was a devoted spouse of 27 years to Kay Sornberger, as he was within two earlier marriages. He is survived by Kay, as well as four children, Robin, Jeff, Joe (Kathy) and Tinsley (Johnnie); two stepchildren, Scott (Cindy) and Kirk Sornberger; six grandchildren, Brittany (Joe) Chiavini, Courtney (TJ) Malone, Bryan, Baylee, James and Caroline; two step-grandchildren, Justin and Will Sornberger; and two great-grandchildren, Alana and Matthew Malone. Bob was an exceptional athlete in many sports but was perhaps best known as an outstanding fast-pitch softball pitcher and hitter for nearly 30 years, a dedicated golfer, and a lover of the outdoors. A celebration of Bob's life will be held at Heather Ridge Country Club, 13521 E. Iliff Ave., Aurora, on Thursday, December 15, 2022, beginning at 3:30 P.M., with a brief program at 4:30 P.M. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to Mile Hi United Way, Denver, Colorado.