Robert J. Wands

Robert J. Wands, 86, passed away Oct 31, 2025.

Robert is survived by his daughters, Kirby (Rod) Marquez, Cassandra Krupka; granddaughters, Kendell (Cole) Bennick, Conley (Josh) Campbell, Savannah Krupka, Madison Krupka; and grandson, Peyton Krupka. He is also survived by his sister, Alice (Dunbar) Susong; brother-in-law, Robert Longgrear; and his significant other of 5 years, Jean Donnelly.

Robert is preceded in death by his wife of 51 years, Carol and his brother-in-law, Russ Longgrear.

He was born on June 24, 1939, in Denver, Colorado. He was a Professor Emeritus at Colorado State University–Pueblo, where he began his teaching career in 1963. In addition to his long tenure there, he served as Director of the Wands Art Studio and Gallery beginning in 1978. Early in his career, Robert gained valuable experience with the YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park, Colorado, where he was Artist in Residence from 1972 to 1977. His first professional position was as an instructor at the University of Denver from 1962 to 1963.

Beyond his academic and artistic pursuits, Robert was deeply involved in his community. He served on the Board of the Cultural Arts Council of Estes Park, Colorado, beginning in 2000, and was a member of the Board of Directors for the Sangre de Cristo Arts Center in Pueblo, Colorado, from 1981 to 1987.

Robert was a devoted husband to Carol for 51 years and a loving father to his daughters, Kirby and Cassandra. He also cherished his grandchildren—Kendell, Conley, Savannah, Madison, and Peyton—and in later years, shared his life with his significant other, Jean Donnelly.

In his free time, Robert loved hiking and spending time at his summer home in Estes Park. He was also an avid traveler and animal lover. Robert will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a date to be determined in early summer 2026.

Memorials may be made to The Southern Colorado Spay and Neuter Association, 1700 S. Prairie Ave., Pueblo, CO 81005, in his memory.