Garret Ackerson Gifford, Jr.

In Loving Memory of Garret Ackerson Gifford Jr.

April 15, 1959 – July 2, 2025 Westminster, Colorado

Garret Ackerson Gifford Jr. was deeply loved — by his wife, children, family, friends, teammates, players, and colleagues. He lived a life marked by hard work, generosity, and unwavering dedication to the people and communities he cared about. Whether it was business, family, coaching, or fishing, Garret gave his full heart.

In the final six months of his life, Garret was surrounded by a wide circle of family and friends — a testament to the countless lives he touched.

Early Life and Education

Garret was born on April 15, 1959, in New Canaan, Connecticut, to Garret “Garry” Gifford Sr. and Adelaide “Muffy” Gifford. He attended New Canaan Country Day School, Deerfield Academy, earned his undergraduate degree from Middlebury College, and later received his MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University — achievements that reflected both his intellect and drive.

Career

Garret began his career in education as a teacher at Kingswood Oxford before transitioning into the corporate world, working for Quaker Oats and Rust-Oleum. Eventually, he found his entrepreneurial calling and spent 23 years owning and operating a Fastsigns franchise in Arvada, Colorado, earning multiple Pinnacle Club awards and mentoring new franchise owners across the country.

Family and Personal Life

In 1997, Garret married Kim Gifford, his partner of 27 years. Together they raised three incredible children: Charlie (26), Jack (25), and Hope (23). Garret was immensely proud of them and loved his role as a father. He also welcomed his daughter-in-law Makena Gifford into the family with warmth and pride.

Garret found joy in life’s simple pleasures — fly fishing, golfing, lacrosse, paddle tennis, and exercising — but his greatest joy was being active in the lives of his children and the broader community. A lifelong athlete and passionate coach, Garret left a mark on Colorado lacrosse and was honored as Person of the Year by the Colorado Boys High School Lacrosse Coaches Association in May 2025.

He also served on the board of directors at Woodrow Wilson Academy, supported local businesses, and gave generously to charitable causes.

Summers on Nantucket Island, cherished family traditions, and spirited competition were all part of the vibrant tapestry of his life.

Legacy

Garret is survived by his loving wife, Kim; his children, Charlie (Makena), Jack, and Hope; his sister Lesley Gibson and brother Don Gifford, along with their families. He was preceded in death by his parents, Garret “Garry” Gifford Sr. and Adelaide “Muffy” Gifford.

A Life Well Lived

In the final chapter of his life, Garret made a bucket list — and lived it. From fishing trips and reconnecting with lifelong friends to traveling to the Vail Zen Masters Lacrosse Tournament, he checked every box with joy and grace.

Garret’s story ended exactly as he lived it: with a smile, surrounded by the people he loved. His legacy will live on in the values he passed down, the relationships he built, and the countless lives he touched.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Elevations Hospice Colorado at sagefoc.com. The nurses and staff at Elevations were so wonderful at a challenging time of life.