Ronald Lee “Curly” Glanz, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on January 21, 2026, at the age of 87.
Ronald was born on November 3, 1938, in Sutton, Nebraska, and spent his early years living on a farm near Davenport, Nebraska, alongside his parents and siblings. Around the age of eight, his family moved to Washington County, Colorado, where he attended Lone star School and continued developing the strong work ethic and sense of responsibility that would remain with him throughout his life. He often fondly shared stories of his childhood, including helping his father with custodial duties at the schoolhouse and driving a school bus full of children—well before he was old enough to hold a driver’s license. He also loved reminiscing about being up before the sun, shoveling snow at the school all before breakfast.
Ron lived in several places throughout his life, including Denver, Colorado. In 1979, he moved to New Mexico with his wife Cindy and their two younger sons, where he would spend the remainder of his life and make a lasting home. It was there that he built deep roots, meaningful frienships, and a life centered on faith, family, and laughter.
Ron spent many years working in the trucking industry, a career he took great pride in. A dedicated and hard working man, he was a proud member of Teamsters Local 492, valuing the camaraderie, integrity, and strong work ethic that came with it.
Ronald is survived by his loving wife of 26 years, Louisa; his sons Tim (wife Jenelle), Matt, and Andy (wife Sheri); and his stepchildren, whom he loved as his own—Dawn, Ruben, and Crucita. He leaves behind 11 cherished grandchildren: Kayli, Jennifer, Billy, Katrina, Davin, Vanessa, Mia, Eryn, Jamie, Rudi, and Casey, along with eight adored great-grandchildren who brought him immeasurable joy, as well as a number of nieces and nephews with whom he stayed in close contact until his final days.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Edith; his siblings Helen, Marie, Gerald, and Joe; his daughter-in-law Cathy Glanz; and his first wife of 39 years, Cindy Kelso Glanz.
If you ever asked Ron what he was most proud of, his answer was always simple and unwavering: his family. He loved each one with his whole heart. A man of faith throughout his life, Ron fully surrendered his life to the Lord in 2018. We find peace in knowing he is now fully restored and joyfully dancing in heaven.
Ron was loved by many and truly never met a stranger. To know Curly was to know unconditional love, contagious laughter, and a whole lot of silliness. A proud goofball in the very best way, he had a special gift with children—they adored him just as much as he adored them.
The family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to everyone for their love, prayers, and support during this time. A special thank you to Roadrunner Hospice for their compassionate and devoted care.