Michael "Mick" Keating Metzger

Michael Keating Metzger went home to Jesus on July 5th, 2023. He passed in his home surrounded by his loving family. Michael was born September 8th, 1940 to Michael and Kathleen (Saunders) Metzger in Denver, Colorado. He had one sister, Patricia (Metzger) Milton. Michael “Mike/Mick” graduated from South Denver High School. After graduation he enlisted in the Army and was part of the Airborne. While stationed in Berlin, Mick had the distinction of being a member of JFK’s Honor Guard. He had the privilege of witnessing JFK’s West Berlin speech in 1963. Mick was present when the Berlin Wall was being built and while that experience left him with some haunting memories, he was able to share a time in history that left a lasting impact on the rest of us. When Mick finished his military service, he returned to Colorado where he met his soulmate, Kay, shortly after. Mick would be the first one to tell you that Kay saved his life. They were married and blessed with four wonderful children. Mick started his career as a distributor in the gas industry and then worked for himself after purchasing his own gas station. Later, he shifted careers and entered into law enforcement, where he thrived. Mick moved through the ranks, quickly, as law enforcement was his calling. Captain Metzger was an innovator, a leader, and well respected by not only his peers, but inmates, as well. He retired from the Weld County Sheriff’s Office after 27 years of service. During his retirement years, Mick and Kay moved to Oregon. Mick found some rest and relaxation, but as his family grew, he realized his place was here, so he made the sacrifice to return to Greeley. He enjoyed life with not only Kay and their kids, but many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Mick “Pa” was an actively engaged grandpa and he was proud of each and every one of his children and grandchildren. Mick had a love for motorcycles, especially Harley Davidsons. He frequently visited Sturgis rallies in South Dakota. He was immersed in his sons’ motorcycle racing adventures. Mick is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Kay; son Mick (Mary), their children, Katelyn, Madisyn, and Makenna; daughter, Terri Tafoya (Jay), their children, Gavin and Kami; son Marc, his children, Mason and Kayla; daughter Mary Metzger, her children, Gabby Easton (Jon), their children Theodor, Charlotte, Malcolm; Maddy Easter (Thomas), their children Alexander, Orion, and Alina; Keating; and Kathleen; Niece, Julie (Kurt) and great niece, Kylie; Nephew, Keith (Mona); bonus family: George Slack, Kim Slack, Jordan Richardson, Pat Richardson. He is also survived by a large extended family, who he adored. Mick is preceded in death by his parents; sister, Patricia and husband, Ronald; niece, Rhonda; great nephew, Konrad. There will be a mass said in Mick’s honor July 24th, 2023 @ 1pm at St. Mary Catholic Church, 2222 23rd Avenue, Greeley. Reception follows at Knights Hall, 2600 6th Ave, Greeley. Inurnment: July 25th, 2023 @ 11:15 at Ft. Logan Cemetery, 4400 West Kenyon Avenue, Denver. Donations can be made to the Colorado Fallen Hero Foundation. (Website or Address)