October 14, 1941 - January 02, 2021
Jay William Ordway, 79, transitioned to his new life on January 2, 2021, surrounded in love by family members after a courageous, ten-month battle with Glioblastoma brain cancer.
To know Jay was to love Jay. Always a gentleman, he was adored by friends, co-workers and family for his kind and generous heart. Jay was a prolific jokester with a great wit, and if you were in his presence, you were bound to laugh heartily at his jokes and humor.
Born in Illiff, Colorado, Jay was raised across northeastern Colorado and moved as his father (Jay Claude Ordway) was required by the Union Pacific Railroad. He graduated from Platteville High School in 1959 and spent his career with Weld County School District Six managing the distribution of all school supplies and equipment throughout the district. Jay was also a member of the Colorado Air National Guard from 1965 to 1971.
Growing up, Jay was a natural athlete excelling in baseball, football and basketball and felt at home in the mountains. He had a passion for horses and wildlife and spent many years with his favorite pony, Snuffy. Jay was a true cowboy who loved his King Ropes hat, button-down Levi’s and ostrich boots. In the early 2000’s, Jay and his wife, MaryAnn Ordway, built a beautiful log-mountain home outside of Estes Park, Colorado, surrounded by 360-degree views of Rocky Mountain beauty and daily visits of various mountain animals. They were a great team, constantly working on projects side by side to add special touches throughout the home. Loving to dance, Jay would often spontaneously grab MaryAnn’s hand for a quick twirl through the house.
A true artist and craftsman, Jay loved the art of pencil and ink illustration as well as woodworking. Many a friend and family member benefit from beautifully built benches, tables, and a host of other home elements for which Jay personally selected wood based on his design expectations. He was a self-taught master and perfectionist who thrived in getting the details just right.
Jay was predeceased by his father and mother, Edith Louise Ordway (nee Simpson) and sister Paula Kay Ordway. He is survived by his wife, MaryAnn Ordway (nee Sikich); daughters Toni Jean Scott (Larry Scott) of Longmont and Joey Marie Ordway (Katie Coates) of Phoenix, AZ; and stepchildren Tara Matta of Denver and Troy Matta of Denver.
A celebration of life with friends and family may take place later this year. In the meantime, the family hopes you will share your stories, memories and condolences of Jay online at www.kibbeyfishburn.com.
