Al Lear

Al Lear of Ault, Colorado, known to many as Coach, Papa Lear, or Big Al, passed away peacefully on August 9, 2021.

Born in Fort Collins on July 21,1943, Al attended FCHS where he was a stand out athlete and High School All American football player his Senior year for the Lambkins. From FCHS he attended the University of Oklahoma on a football scholarship for two years. He returned to Fort Collins and played for the CSU Rams and earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Education. His first teaching job was in Fort Morgan for two years where he coached football, wrestling and track. He went to Yuma High School as the Head football coach and PE teacher. He would serve in that role and take on the role of Assistant Principal and Athletic Director for the next twelve years. He moved to Windsor High School, accepting the role of Assistant Principal/Athletic Director and later as Head football coach for the next twenty years.

Preceding him in death are his parents Albert and Lydia Lear, sisters Shirley Zwetzig and Launa Forrester, brother Harlan Lear and in-laws Neal and Phyllis McCurdy.

He is survived by his wife Terry, sons Shawn (Lynn) and Thad (Lisa) and beloved grandchildren Kendrick and Kassidy.

Coach Lear also survives in the memories of his students, players, and colleagues in 35 years of education.

A celebration of his life will be held August 28th at the American Legion in Windsor, Colorado, 624 Ash Street from 1pm to 5pm. Please share your condolences and memories of Al as we will be sharing lots of stories and memories at the celebration. We ask that you plant a tree in his memory.