Bruce Michael Rector
October 14, 1940 ~ July 23, 2017
Bruce Michael Rector
In loving memory of Michael Rector. He was born on October 14th, 1940 in Oakland, CA. He spent his childhood camping, hunting, fishing and skipping school in Chico, CA. After completing high school, Mike joined the Army as a paratrooper. Through his service he was stationed in Okinawa and still maintains that he holds the record for the longest freefall before pulling his chute.
After his time with the Army he started a 30 year career with Lockheed in Sunnyvale, CA. While in Northern CA, he attended a Halloween party without a costume. It was at this party that he met the love of his life, a New Yorker named Carole.
They were married on September 22nd, 1973 in Newburg, NY.
They welcomed their son, Brian on June 11th, 1976 and their daughter Julie, on June 9th, 1980.
They have resided in Parker, CO since 1978.
Michael took a lot of pride in his career as a computer programmer, which he enjoyed until his retirement last year.
He had a love of the outdoors and enjoyed tending to his greenhouse that he built, his garden, and taking care of their 5 acre property.
He is survived by his wife, Carole. He was a devoted father to Brian Rector and Julie Odell, and Father in Law to Christina Rector and Mark Odell. Mike is also survived by his 4 grandchildren, Colten (9),& Cannon (6) Rector; and , Emersyn (4), & Greysyn (10mo).Odell.
A celebration of life will be held at Parker United Methodist Church on Friday, August 4th at 2pm.
Family and friends are encouraged to sign Mike's guest book and share memories and/or photos by clicking the appropriate tab to the left.
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Carol and Family,
Just heard the news of Mike's passing, and immediately lift him and you all up in prayer.
What a great coworker and neighbor he was to us. But more importantly, an even better friend. You could always count on him to work hard, have your back and share a good laugh. We moved from Denver 10 years ago, but I would run into him from time to time on yearly trips back to the office, and those encounters were as natural as if we had never left.
He will always hold a special place in our hearts.
God bless you and comfort you,
Eric and Minerva Conrad
I know your family must be struggling beyond words with the pain of losing a man of so much importance who provided so much love to those around him. Words will never be adequate nor will they take away the pain. I hope the memories will continue to always make you smile and laugh during the most difficult of times. Much love from our family to yours. Love, Summer (Jamison), Gregory, Kensington and Kylie Pearl
My thoughts and prayers are with you. Mike will be missed, you were the best neighbors Gary & I ever had.
Carole and Family – our friendship has spanned almost half a century. We treasure our memories of all the many great times we shared.
Mike will live in our hearts forever.
Love to each and every one.
Julie and I are very sorry for your loss. I worked with Mike in Aurora for many years. He was one of the good guys and it was always a pleasure to have him around. He will be missed.
I have known Mike and Carole for over 45 years. Mike will truly be missed by us all.
I have known Mike and Carole for over 45 years. Mike will truly be missed by us all.
Since we were 24 yrs old all the way to our 70's , we have so many wonderful & some hysterical memories of our times together with you. You will be SO missed . RIP
Mike's contributions made a difference in the world we work. His brilliant and innovative ideas will live in his code for many years in a significant application that helps to protect our nation. I always enjoyed working with Mike. He was approachable and willing to discuss ideas. His life was truly well lived.
With greatest sympathy for your loss,
George Lowe
Our thoughts, prayers and love are with you and your family. Wish we could be there to give you a hug. Such a difficult time but God will guide you as you go forward.
Marcia and Gary
LOVE YOU MICHAEL
I just saw the e-mail of Mike's passing. So sorry to hear the news. Susan and I send our sincere condolences for your loss.