Kenneth "Ken" M. Shorter

Kenneth M. Shorter

1948 – 2025

Kenneth “Ken” M. Shorter was born on March 13, 1948, to Bill and Elizabeth Shorter in Denver, Colorado. He grew up in Edgewater with his three sisters—Carol, Janet, and Sharon—and in 1963 his family moved to Montrose. Ken graduated from Montrose High School in 1966 and went on to attend Colorado State University.

On March 22, 1972, Ken married the love of his life, Nancy VanRiper, in Loveland, Colorado. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure, raising their three children—Lisa, Kelley, and Brian—mostly in Denver and Colorado Springs.

Ken began his career in construction, where his talent, dedication, and strong work ethic led him into management and eventually into entrepreneurship. He owned several successful businesses in cabinets, countertops, and flooring, earning the respect of colleagues and clients alike. Ken took great pride not only in his discipline and business success but also in mentoring others, sharing lessons that extended far beyond the workplace.

After retiring, Ken returned to Montrose to enjoy life closer to family, friends, and the outdoors he loved. He found joy in the mountains, favorite fishing spots, and time spent on the golf course. At home, he devoted countless hours to nurturing his beautiful yard and gardens and was always ready to lend a helping hand to friends and neighbors.

Ken cherished family above all else. He found happiness in camping, fishing, exploring nature, and cheering on his children at their school and sporting events. His grandchildren—Austin, Samantha, Dylan, Connor, Josie, and Colton—were his pride and delight. Every shared moment with them was treasured, creating memories full of love, and affection.

Ken also deeply valued the friendships and family connections that filled his life. Whether attending reunions, hiking with loved ones, listening to summer concerts in the park, or enjoying quiet conversations on the porch, he brought warmth and kindness to every gathering.

His legacy lives on in the hearts of those he leaves behind – in the laugher of his children, the lessons he taught, and the values he instilled. He showed us that true success comes not from wealth or comfort, but from honesty, hard work and love.

Ken passed away at home in Montrose on October 3, 2025. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Carol. He survived by his devoted wife Nancy; children Lisa, Kelley, Brian (Erika), and Lori from a previous marriage; grandchildren Austin, Samantha, Dylan, Connor, Josie, and Colton; sisters Janet and Sharon (Steve); sisters-in-law Lael VanRiper and Terry Mason; brother-in-law Rick VanRiper; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends.

In lieu of flowers or gifts the family kindly requests donations go to the Montrose Regional Heath/San Juan Cancer Center in Ken’s name.

To his many friends, thank you for being part of his journey and for the love and memories you shared along the way.