Charles Warren Cutforth

Charles Warren Cutforth, 96, of Denver, died Tuesday, April 3, 2018, surrounded by family and loved ones at Denver Health Medical Center. He was born to the late Stanley and Iva Belzora Cutforth July 27, 1921, in Denver, Colorado. He was one of five brothers. Their mother Iva raised them alone through much of their childhood. Money was tight, but since the family owned a hen, Charles had fond memories of eating all the egg gravy he wanted on special occasions.

Charles graduated from North High School in 1939. He began to work for the Rio Grande Railroad after high school, working his way up to assistant treasurer over 43 years, although he often worked other jobs as needed to help provide for his family. If you asked him how he was doing, he was sure to answer, "Rio Grande!"

He was drafted into WWII in 1942, following his brothers. Charles served in the army on the Pacific Front and was injured in combat. He also became an unofficial chaplain to his division after the man serving as chaplain was sent home.

After returning from war, Charles met Clara Darlene Allen, the youngest of 6 children from a farm community in Eastern Colorado. Darlene, who was never called by her first name, became Charles' bride on June 15, 1947. In February 1949, they welcomed their first-born into the family, son Timothy Charles. In October 1952, they welcomed their daughter, Zora Lea, named after Charles' mother.

Charles was involved in ministry in many capacities. His family toured East Asia with Youth For Christ in the 1970s as the Cut4th Family gospel singers, also putting out 4 LPs. He was a faithful member and Deacon at Central Bible Church, where he helped with music, Vacation Bible School, preaching, and other ministries as needed. Charles also served on the board of Western Bible Institute, now Colorado Christian University, for many years. He also regularly preached at the Denver Rescue Mission.

Charles loved to watch sports almost as much as he loved playing sports. He finally hung up his tennis shoes at age 72, when playing basketball at the local recreation center became too much for his knees. When watching sports, he cheered loudly for the players and heckled the referees even louder.

In later years, Charles loved to travel, bringing his wife, children, and grandchildren along on many adventures. He also made it a point to attend the Veterans' Day celebrations in Branson, Missouri for as long as he was healthy enough to travel. In June 2017, Charles and Darlene celebrated 70 years of marriage.

Charles is survived by his wife, Darlene, his son Tim and wife Virginia, of Denver, Colorado; his daughter Zora Darrow and husband John C., of Lakewood, Colorado; ten grandchildren, and eighteen great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, please send memorial contributions to the Denver Rescue Mission.

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