Ryan Kesler Obituary

Ryan Gregory Kesler, beloved son, grandson, friend, and family member, died tragically in a car accident on Friday, July 18, 2025.
He was the long wished for miracle baby to Greg and Natalie Kesler, born Aug. 14, 2007, making their hearts whole. Ryan, 17, was a student at Golden High School, where his friends, many of whom he had known since kindergarten, meant the world to him.
Ryan was known for his adventurous and determined nature, kind heart, and a contagious smile and laugh. He had a unique gift for bringing joy into everything. He was fearless, tenacious and determined at trying new things. Ryan had no barriers to kindness and was fiercely loyal. He had a way of pulling people in of all ages- including a huge cousin fan base.
Ryan was baptized a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and ordained a priest.
On the football turf, he lit up where his joy and energy were strong. In life and on the field, Ryan was the best teammate playing competitively or helping on the sidelines. His Nana Lee put a golf club in his hands as young as he could walk and they had a banter of who could drive the farthest.
Being in the water was one of Ryan's happiest activities - wave running, swimming, river rafting, or flying down a water slide. His first job was this summer as a lifeguard at the YMCA. His passion for lifeguarding was sparked through earning his lifesaving Scout merit badge.
Uniquely for a teen, he loved driving his dad's stick-shift vehicles, including his restored Chevelle. His father loved watching how he took care of others on their campouts, whether it be setting up the tent or sharpening an axe and more.
He shared his mom's love for all things Disney – from racing onto every fast or classic ride to savoring caramel apples on the way out. His mother poured her heart and creativity into every birthday celebration, designing unforgettable, themed parties that became treasured memories.
His mother Natalie: "Ryan taught me how to love. He was the beacon of light that illuminated my life, my world, my everything."
His father Greg: "Ryan was the center of everything I wanted in a son and fulfilled all my hopes and dreams of what a son would be. I wouldn't want anyone else but him. I couldn't have asked for anyone better to call me dad."
Ryan is survived by his father Greg Kesler of Golden, Colorado, mother, Natalie Staples Kesler of Brighton, Colorado; grandparents Karl and Eileen Kesler of San Antonio, Texas, Larry and Ann Staples of St. George, Utah, and Don Middleton of Garland, Texas; Uncles and Aunts Milan and Connie Hall of Aurora, Colorado, Scott and Sheri Anderson of Frisco, Texas, Jay and Jodi Tuttle of San Antonio, Texas, Andrew and Staci Bennett of Plano, Texas, Issac and Kristi Burns of Plano, Texas, Mark and Tiffany Sachse of Mt. Vernon, Texas, Chris and Patrice Winterholler of Scottsdale, Arizona, Eric and Sharisa Lewis of Plano, Texas, Scott and Katie Topham of Longmont, Colorado, Derek and Mary Staples of New Canaan, Connecticut, James and Karly Barker of Charlotte, North Carolina.
Ryan is survived by many, many cousins who love and cherish their time with him and by his loyal dog, 17-year-old Hershey. He is preceded in death by his loving grandmother Mary Lee Milne Middleton and his cousin Marjorie Olivia Staples. SuzAnne Severson gave our family the greatest gift of Ryan, and his parents feel honored to be chosen to raise him.
When Ryan was with you, many said they never wanted him to leave. He carried a joyous Spirit – the kind that made you hope it would stay a little longer. We hope and pray it lingers on within all who loved him.
A viewing will be held Saturday, July 26, at 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. MT, followed by funeral services at 11:30 a.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 610 Coors Street, Golden, Colorado. In lieu of flowers, donations Ryan's honor can be made to Mile High Canine Rescue.
Funeral Zoom link: https://zoom.us/j/97806414569?pwd=ZTtlMEW2rH8zbXM9AjwYmK7hr8kOA2.1
Ryan's parents want to thank his friends for the roadside memorial and outpouring of love that has brought them so much peace and comfort.
He will forever be a Golden Demon.