Ralph Achilles

Ralph Coyte Achilles, 81, passed away on July 27, 2025, after a battle with Alzheimer's, which he faced with courage, fortitude, grace, and humor.
Born on August 22, 1943, in Illinois, Ralph and his family moved to Denver when he was 3. At East and George Washington high schools, he found his true calling as an entertainer. He acted in plays, performed his own comedy skits, MCed school shows, played jazz drums in school bands and led his own jazz band.
At Colorado State University, Ralph learned guitar and began writing songs. He and friend Eddie Demos delighted audiences with their duo, The Sherwoods.
By a stroke of luck, Ralph then met Frank Bruen at CSU, where they discovered their wonderful vocal blend and shared sense of humor. They created the folk duo Achilles and Frank, known for their hilarious and endearing shows, as well as their original songs, such as "The Two Peddler Men," "Watermelon Is a King's Delight," and "The Colorado Sky." While performing at The College Inn in Denver, Ralph met his future wife, Janét, who was seated in the audience. During that time, Achilles and Frank also created hundreds of comical Gasamat commercials that brought laughter to countless radio listeners.
Building on their success, singer-songwriter Bonnie Ellison joined them to form the popular musical group FAB Company, and Jerry Jacobs later added his talents. They created numerous LPs, their music was heard on the radio in Colorado and nationally, and their live shows were well loved.
Ralph later embarked on a solo comedy career. He was a beloved figure in the Denver comedy scene, and formed lasting friendships with fellow comedians. He brought his comedy and music to singer John Gary's show tours. Ralph spent many years as a headline entertainer on cruise ships. He loved performing in the formal theaters to large audiences and he enjoyed traveling the world.
Ralph was known for his uplifting and evocative songwriting, his unique, hilarious, clean comedy, and his professionalism and class. Most importantly, Ralph loved connecting with audiences and spreading joy.
He cherished the comfort of home after his travels. An avid reader, poet, and writer, he also loved nature, fishing in Colorado's mountain wilderness, boating, and golfing with friends. He treasured warm family gatherings and watching his children and grandchildren grow.
Ralph's philosophy was to live in the moment and to find the bliss in each day. He wanted everyone to be happy, and we believe that he'd want his memory to inspire a true celebration of life.
Ralph is survived by Janét, his wife of 57 years; children Stasi (Nick), Tony, Greg and Georgianna; grandchildren Antonia, Sofia, Ethan, Liam, and Audrey; sisters Pat and Diane (Ed), and his many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents Angie and Bill Achilles, his brother Bill, and his dear friend, comedy club owner George McKelvey.
To honor Ralph's joyful spirit, a celebration of his life will take place at Quebec Place at Fairmount, 430 S Quebec St #2, Denver, CO 80247, on Saturday, August 30, 2025, at 12:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Disabled American Veterans in honor of Ralph's domestic military service.