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Todd Kester

May 9th, 1971 - March 8th, 2024

Todd Kester May 9th 1971 to March 8th 2024.

 

***UPDATE: new day and time, March 16, 2024 at 10:30am for the service***

 

With heavy hearts, we bid farewell to Todd Kester, a truly remarkable soul who touched the lives of everyone he encountered. Todd's passing leaves a void in our hearts and in the world, but his legacy of kindness, warmth, and genuine interest in others will forever endure.

 

Todd Allen Kester was born May 9th 1971 in Omaha Nebraska. He passed away at the age of 52 on Friday March 8th 2024 in Aurora, CO.

 

He was the son of Beverly (Abele) Kester and Ronald Kester of Greene, Iowa. He was a graduate of Greene High School Class of 1989. He then attended Iowa State University where he graduated with an undergraduate degree in aerospace engineering in 1994. He also received his master’s degree in computer science from University of Nebraska, Omaha.

 

Todd brought an unparalleled brightness into the lives of those around him from the very beginning. His infectious smile and boundless energy made him the life of every gathering, and his genuine concern for others made him a cherished friend to many.

In high school, Todd was in speech contests, Jazz band, Marching band, and Concert band. He also excelled in track, football and baseball. He prided himself on being an eagle scout. He enjoyed camping with his boys, going on hikes and playing hockey. Todd loved to travel and explore new places. He was most recently in Costa Rica where he proposed to his fiancé Aimee in a beautiful resort situated in a rain forest. Todd loves to spend time with his friends and often over a great dram of whiskey.

 

Throughout his life, Todd exhibited a rare combination of compassion and charisma that drew people to him like a magnet. He had an uncanny ability to make everyone feel valued and appreciated, no matter their background or circumstances. Whether sharing a joke, lending a listening ear, or offering a comforting embrace, Todd's presence had a way of uplifting spirits and bringing joy to those around him.

 

His three amazing sons were his pride and joy. The proudest moment for Todd was moving his son Alex down to Arizona State University for his first year in college. He swelled with joy when his son’s Andrew and Nicholas performed in their school bands. He recorded every performance they had. Todd never turned down a video gaming session with his sons. He loved them more than anything on this earth. His legacy will forever live on in his sons.

 

Todd is survived by his Fiancé, Aimee; Sons, Alex Kester, Andrew Kester and Nicholas Kester Aurora CO; Mother, Beverly Kester; Father, Ronald Kester Greene IA; Sister, Barbara Collins, Brother in-law, Gregory Collins: Nephew: Caleb Collins, Nieces, Lori Anne Collins, Elizabeth and Jacob Schmidt, Melinda and Ashe RommelI, Uncle LeRoy Kester and Aunt Susan Kester, Uncle Robert Abele of South Dakota, Aunt Caryl and Steve Huffman.

 

Todd was preceded in death by Uncle Dean Abele (deceased 2011) and Uncle Jerry Kester (deceased 2019).

 

A Celebration of Life will be held at 10:30 am, Saturday, March 16, 2024 at St Andrew United Methodist Church, 9203 S University Blvd, Highlands Ranch, CO 80126. 

 

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Iowa State University Foundation Computer Science related funds. https://securelb.imodules.com/s/1463/giving/interior.aspx?sid=1463&gid=1&pgid=2309&cid=7516&dids=638.80.457.464.320&sort=1&bledit=1&appealcode=200COMOL

We Entrusted Todd Kester's Care To

Ponderosa Valley Funeral Services

Ponderosa Valley Funeral Services

Ponderosa Valley Funeral Services has proudly served families in Denver, Parker, and the neighboring communities for over two decades. We invite you to celebrate your loved one’s legacy in our beautifully renovated chapel and reception room with state-of-the-art amenities. Our family care advisors create tailored arrangements, from traditional burial or cremation to direct cremation, with priority return of your loved one’s ashes. Whether you seek thoughtful, prearranged plans or guidance through the final farewell of a loved one, Ponderosa is here to support you with compassion and expertise.

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Tributes

Share a favorite memory, send condolences, and honor Todd’s life with a heartfelt message.

RG Scitorian

There are very few people who come into your life and leave an indelible print. No matter the length of time you knew Todd, he was a lifelong friend. To my friend: Thank you for the ridiculous moments - that laughter will vibrate in my soul til my end. Thank you for the “intellectual” moments - your mind was unique and weird. Thank you for the “real talk” - because no matter how much you think you know about this life, a true friend is there to contemplate what seems to matter most. I’ll see you on the other side and expect to share more stories with you.

Published March 19th, 2024
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Stephen Kelly

Having just heard of Todd’s passing, I’m shocked and saddened. Al Hamor introduced me to Todd years ago when I was recruiting skaters for our summer Saturday morning drop-in style ice hockey sessions. Todd always brought a positive and jovial spirit that was infectious, even for an early morning skate. We / I always looked forward to Todd’s presence. In sports vernacular, Todd can be described as ‘a locker room guy you gotta have around’. //// Todd was also an in-demand software engineer in the aerospace industry working critical national asset interests. //// May God bless Todd’s children, fiancée, and all loved ones. Many Blessings, Stephen Kelly

Published March 17th, 2024
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Kathleen Barserian

Todd Kester. TK to those of us lucky enough to have been in his presence. He embodied kindness he demonstrated grace. He shared thoughtfulness in his actions. He showered those he loved with his time and his touch. He was the Son in Law a parent dreams of… I could not have asked God to sculpt a more tender sweet compassionate man to hold the heart of my daughter. Todd asked for our daughter’s hand and we willing accepted his offer to love and cherish our Aimee. We love Todd as our own. He gifted our family with an incredible tenderness that he always bestowed upon our daughter, and her son. He was an amazing father to his 3 very wonderful sons and we all so looked forward to the blending of two families to create ONE WHOLE family of love. We shall be forever grateful for the time we were given with TK and we will always yearn for one more of his smiles… Heaven has gained the most precious angel. If you love Todd, be a good person. That’s what Todd would want…. XOXO Kathy Barserian

Published March 16th, 2024
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David Karp

Regrettably, I had not seen Todd in some years. Always figured that there would be time to reconnect. When I think of him, the first thing that comes to mind is his big smile. He wore it often. David Karp

Published March 15th, 2024
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Team Las Cruces

Todd, You will be deeply missed. We are forever grateful for the support and guidance you have provided all of us. You treated our Las Cruces team like family and we are eternally grateful for you. Your sense of humor and laughter will be missed by all who knew you. Your boys and Aimee are in our prays through this difficult time. Until we meet again… Team Las Cruces

Published March 14th, 2024
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Becky Campbell

There are no words that could ever articulate how special Todd was to this world. Todd was a one of a kind genuine person who had true empathy for everyone he met. Todd cared for everyone more than he cared for himself, an incredible burden that he couldn’t help but carry. Alex, Andrew, and Nicholas he adored you. He talked about you all the time with great pride. He knew he had great kids and that your future is bright. Amiee and Karter he found his ultimate happiness when you both came into his life completing a beautiful blended family. Amiee he always had the most amazing smile when he talked about you. You matched his genuineness and were there to lighten the load he carried for so long alone. My heart goes out to all of you. There are no words that will make this ok but please know you are loved and that we will be here to share in his memory. God bless. “The lotus flower blooms most beautifully from the deepest and thickest mud.” – Buddhist Proverb

Published March 13th, 2024
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Eric Conrad

I'm at a loss for words. Midnight hockey, full contact basketball in a swimming pool, talking story around the fire pit, numerous laugh-filled dinners are just a few of my favorite memories. I've never laughed as hard in my life as I did with Todd one night while we played cards (the naked field goal kicking story is true). The most upbeat person I've ever had the privilege of calling friend. Minerva and I keep looking at each other and just saying "I can't believe it". The world is less cheerful without you Todd, thank you for being our friend. Rest in peace.

Published March 12th, 2024
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Craig Roush

Todd was an absolute amazing human being. I am so blessed to have had him in my life and part of my journey. Over the years Todd and I would have long conversations over dinner and usually and Old Fashioned (or two). We would have the hard conversations about life and our personal struggles, what we are doing to get better, or just having a space where we could vent about life. Our mental health journeys carried many similarities, it was in our respective journeys that we truly bonded. Todd was like a big brother that I never had, always supportive, empathetic and present, whenever I needed to talk. He would check in on me, see how I was doing, especially in some of my most dark moments. Todd was one of the few people to tell me how proud they were of me and what I have achieved. He was one of those people that even when things seemed bleak, he had a way of always seeing the bright side. These are the intangibles that we will never be able to replace, Todd was a light in this world. I cannot believe he is no longer with us. For as long as I live, I will remember Todd at our last meal together a few short weeks ago. He was glowing, he was truly happy. The world lost a great one and it will never be the same place without him in it. I love you brother, until the end. "How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard" -- A.A. Miline

Published March 12th, 2024
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Michael Kritenbrink

Our hearts are heavy at the loss of a remarkable individual whose sudden departure has left an irreplaceable void. I will miss our long talks on topics that ranged from growing up in Iowa and summer jobs like walking beans and detasseling corn, to what makes the best old fashion and traeger recipes, from locker room and on ice hockey stories, to family and work and supporting each other in overcoming everyday challenges, and everything in between. From the first time we met in August 1999, you were a consistent blessing in my life, a source of kindness, and unwavering support. Your infectious laughter, intense enthusiasm, and heartfelt compassion enriched my life in ways beyond measure. I will miss you my friend...

Published March 12th, 2024
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Joe Christian

I don’t remember when I first met Todd, but I can say it was during our early days with Scitor. Todd was one of those people that you are always happy to see when they come by your office. He had the ability to see the good in people. He liked to laugh and have fun. He made life better. He made my life better. He will be missed.

Published March 18th, 2024
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Kelli Trent

For the last several days I’ve been trying to think of something to say about you Todd Kester. I have not come close to what would due you justice. I still can’t believe that you are gone from us here. I know how much you adored your sons and so looked forward to our future conversations. You were always a bright light, positive energy, genuine smile and uplifting person. I enjoyed talking with you anytime I had the chance. You were so smart and amazing!! I am so sad that you are gone from us too soon!! Until we meet again… 🙏🎉🎉🎉

Published March 17th, 2024
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Todd Tourgee

Tina and I want to offer our condolences to Aimee and the rest of Todd's family. You will remain in our hearts and prayers. We did not know Todd personally, but we know we would be better people if we had. If there is anything we can do to help during this difficult time, please reach out anytime. With our heartfelt sympathy, Tina and Todd

Published March 16th, 2024
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Troy & Lisa Ruda

This one hits hard. Todd was one of my first friends when I moved to Denver in 2000 and remained a friend ever since. We might go months or years without talking and could pick up right where we left off. Thank you, Todd for all of the great times. So many video games, horseshoe bouts, football rivalries, and true genuine laughter and friendship. God speed and I hope to see you on the other side. Rest in peace my friend.

Published March 14th, 2024
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Ted Cochran

Todd was a truly remarkable soul, always upbeat and full of energy, regardless of personal circumstance. He was a true visionary who I could always count on as a wellspring of new ideas as well as a sounding board for my what-if’s and how-about’s. We shared a love for data science and always had too little time to discuss the latest developments and opportunities in the field. I will treasure the memory of our animated whiteboard sessions where we solved profound challenges before stopping down for a quick pint and further pontification. Todd always kept those follow-up sessions brief because, as a dedicated father, his sons were his top priority and he needed to maximize the time he spent with them. I will remember Todd as always thinking, always dreaming, and always inspiring those around him with his innovative ideas for making life better for everyone.

Published March 14th, 2024
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David Juenemann

Todd was a good friend, good housemate, good coworker, and a lot of fun to be around. He will be missed. My condolences to his family and friends.

Published March 13th, 2024
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Sheeyun Park

Hearing of Todd’s passing has left a hole in my heart. Sometimes you don’t appreciate the things you have until they are lost. Todd was a kind, supportive friend who always had a word of encouragement or time for a talk over drinks. I will miss your wisdom, compassion, and enthusiasm. I will remember all the adventures, late nights in foreign countries, and inspiring brainstorming sessions. Best wishes to all left behind as we work through our grief.

Published March 12th, 2024
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Al Hamor

Words can't come close to the emotions felt or capturing the sense of loss. Kind-hearted and brilliant are gross understatements when describing Todd. We'll all miss him dearly.

Published March 12th, 2024
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Brian Gleason

Thirty-five years of friendship make my sadness of your passing bearable. Thank you for being such an import part of my life. Brian Gleason

Published March 12th, 2024
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