Donald William McCarty of Arvada, Colorado, passed away peacefully on December 17, 2024, at the age of 81. Don was born on November 21, 1943, in Tucson, Arizona, to Donald C. McCarty and Doris (Donovan) McCarty.

Don spent his childhood in the mining towns of Climax and Leadville, Colorado, which held a special place in his heart and shaped many of his fondest memories.

During the Vietnam War, Don proudly served in the U.S. Navy as an aviation mechanic. His passion for aviation spanned more than six decades, and he received the prestigious Charles Taylor Master Mechanic Award in November 2013, honoring over 50 years of excellence in aviation maintenance. Don worked on both commercial and private aircraft, earning a reputation for his skill and dedication.

Don was a man of many talents. Whether rebuilding an engine, constructing a fence, crafting a wooden table, or even designing an electric guitar, he approached every project with expertise and enthusiasm. He shared this love for hands-on work with his two sons, Ed and Tom, spending countless weekends on projects in the yard, garage, or out on the water with their boat and jet skis.

Don was also a devoted father who supported his sons’ sports activities at the YMCA, cheering them on from the sidelines. He was a lifelong Denver Broncos fan, loyally watching every game, win or lose.

Don is preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Doris McCarty; his brother, James McCarty; and his sister, Debra Savoren. He is survived by his loving sons, Edward Donald McCarty (wife Jodi McCarty) and Thomas James McCarty (wife Jenni McCarty); his grandchildren, Shawn McCarty (wife Zoe McCarty), Audrey McCarty, and Caitlin McCarty; and his nieces and nephews: Brenda (McCarty) Braitberg, Kristine (McCarty) Ryan, Jennifer (Savoren) Wadsworth, Daniel McCarty, and David J. Savoren.

Don’s legacy lives on through the lives he touched and the memories he created. He will be deeply missed but lovingly remembered by all who knew him.

A memorial service date will be announced in the future.