Gene Ciferri

Gene Ciferri, a cherished soul whose life echoed with a blend of wit, adventure, and unwavering love, passed away peacefully at home in Lakewood, Colorado, on January 16, 2026. Born on March 5, 1942, in New York, New York, Gene was a proud Sargeant in the Air Force, a role that not only honed his skills but also sparked a yearning for exploration. His military service took him to Vietnam, where he embraced experiences that would shape his lifelong passion for work and adventure, particularly grateful for his time in the sun-kissed shores of Japan and Hawaii.

Gene’s career reflected his hardworking spirit; after serving his country, he mastered the art of being a cement truck driver with Rampart, where he spent a significant part of his life. In his later years, he utilized his artistry and skill as a painter for King Soopers, playing a crucial role in opening and remodeling their stores, leaving behind a legacy of vibrant colors and meticulously crafted spaces.

Life skills were important to Gene, and he pursued his GED while proudly serving in the Air Force. He was not merely defined by his jobs but rather by the experiences he gathered along the way—driving through the streets, his eyes sparkling with stories, pointing out the various sites of his work, and sharing the adventures that colored his memories. His impromptu drives became a hallmark of his character, inviting family and friends into a world of spontaneity and wonder.

Among his many talents, Gene was a jack of all trades—mechanical, electrical, and everything in between. He found joy in construction sites, captivated by the birth of new structures, and could masterfully tackle projects with an easygoing demeanor. A quintessential storyteller, his wit always shined through as he recounted tales that resonated with laughter and warmth.

Above all, Gene’s proudest accomplishments emanated from his role as a grandfather. His grandchildren—Andrew, Baillie, Natalie, Mickolas, Noella, Thomas, Weston, and Preston—were the living testament of his legacy. Gene always found opportunities to engage them in projects that fostered learning and growth, leaving a profound imprint on their lives that they will carry with them.

He is survived by his children, Daryl Ciferri and Tanya Stinson (Tim); his daughter in law and caretaker, Renee Ciferri and his best friend of many decades, Morey Cannady and the Cannady Family.

Gene was preceded in death by his beloved ex-wife and best friend, Pauletta Ciferri, as well as his parents, Conrad Ciferri and Mary Coburn Ciferri. He was the last of seven siblings, joining his brothers Johnny, Mickey, Al, and Frank, and sisters Eleanor and Dawn in eternal rest.

As Gene embarks on this final journey, he leaves behind a tapestry of memories woven with laughter, adventure, and a love so deep that it transcends time. His legacy lives on in the stories shared, the projects completed, and the hearts of those who loved him fiercely. Farewell, Gene Ciferri; your spirit will forever illuminate the paths you once traversed and the lives you touched.