Kenneth Henry Fosha

May 27, 1945 — March 27, 2024

Drowsy Water Ranch, Colorado

Ken Fosha, a devoted father, grandfather, spouse and friend, passed away March 27, 2024 in Denver, Colorado.

Ken was born on May 27, 1945, in Waukegan, Illinois, to Henry Kenneth Fosha and Margaret Ann Fosha (Gammon). Though his parents were originally from Colorado, they were living in Illinois during the end of WWII where his father was stationed at the Great Lakes Naval Training Center. After his father completed his service, the family returned to Calhan, Colorado, where Ken grew up on the family cattle ranch, the Big Sandy Ranch.

Ken was the oldest of four siblings. He often recalled riding the ranch horses and doing his ranch chores, including the daily milking of the family's two cows, separating the cream from the milk to sell to the local creamery. Growing up in Calhan meant attending a small school, where Ken, like many of his peers, participated in various activities, from sports to student council and music. Ken excelled academically, graduating at the top of his class, while also displaying talent in sports and the arts. After high school, Ken attended the University of Denver, where he graduated with honors, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering.

His professional journey led him to work for Denver Water, where he obtained his Professional Engineering certification, focusing on water rights and capital water development projects in the mountains. Ken's time at DU and in Denver exposed him to the recreational opportunities the mountains had to offer. In his leisure time, he enjoyed backpacking and climbing 14ers in the summer, and skiing in the winter. He even sewed his own tent and sleeping bag for summer trips and became certified as a ski instructor, finding joy in teaching and training others. Ken led instruction certification courses at a number of ski areas and summer classes on Saint Mary’s Glacier. His passion for skiing and his engineering background eventually led Ken to become the Manager of Ski Operations at the Geneva Basin Ski area in the late 1960s and early 1970s. It was during this time that he met Randy Sue Echelmeyer, a fellow skier who would later become his beloved wife of 54 years.

In 1976, Ken and Randy Sue took a leap of faith, risking all they had to purchase the Drowsy Water Guest Ranch, near Granby Colorado. What began as a venture they expected to last 5-10 years turned into a lifelong passion and career. Together, they built a legacy of hard work, outdoor adventure, and genuine western hospitality. They raised two boys at Drowsy Water Ranch, both of whom chose to work alongside their parents in the business. During his time at Drowsy Water Ranch, Ken touched countless guests and employees with his humble manners, his ceaseless work ethic, and with his warm and welcoming laugh. He’d often joke that Randy Sue did all the work and he did all the talking but you didn’t have to look very far to find that Ken was an astute businessman, willing to spend long hours to make the ranch run smoothly.

Throughout his life, Ken's talents and passions extended beyond ranching. He was actively involved in his community, serving as a founding member on the Grand County Tourism Board, a 16-year member of the East Grand School Board, and as a two-time president of the Colorado Dude and Guest Ranch Association. He enjoyed traveling and traversed the world with friends and family. Ken explored Europe, saw Broadway shows, shared scuba diving and sailing adventures and more. Ken was a steady and loving presence in his family, always ready to offer support and guidance. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, dedication, and love. He was a thoughtful and calm sounding board for his family, his employees, and the community.

Ken is preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Margaret Anne Fosha, and his youngest brother, Steve Fosha. He is survived by his wife Randy Sue Fosha, sister Marilyn Gildersleeve (Penn), brother George Fosha (Sally), sons Justin Fosha (Gretta) and Ryan Fosha (Ellen), and three grandchildren: Peyton, Chase, and Scotty Fosha.

A Celebration of Life will be held on May 4th at 11:00 AM at the Church of Eternal Hills in Tabernash, Colorado.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to a Grand County nonprofit of your choice.

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Service Schedule

Past Services

Celebration of Life

Saturday, May 4, 2024

Starts at 11:00 am (Mountain time)

Church of Eternal Hills

100 County Road 515, Tabernash, CO 80446

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