Carl Pierre Pigford, 88, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, at his home in Denver on January 20, 2024.

Carl was born on August 5, 1935, in Denver, Colorado to Joseph and Lottie Pigford. He was the sixth of eight siblings. Carl graduated from Manual High School where he was a tremendous athlete who excelled at basketball. He went on to play college basketball at the University of Seattle, then Colorado State University, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Industrial Construction Management.  In 1961, Carl married his high school sweetheart, Jane Anell Waller. Together, they built a life full of love and cherished memories.

Carl was known for being a family man, public servant, pioneering businessman, and an accomplished athlete. He served his country in the Colorado Army National Guard during the Berlin crisis. In 1972, he established the first Black-owned commercial construction supply company, a successful business he operated for over 30 years. Carl's athletic legacy is memorialized in The Great Book of Denver Sports Lists, which listed him as one of the 100 best high school athletes to ever play in Colorado. He lived a life of service that included tutoring students in reading, math, and science. A dedicated member of The Owl's Club, he served on their Debutante Selection Committee. Carl was a supportive connecting Link and a former active father in Jack and Jill. He also taught Sunday school at St. Thomas Episcopal church. His favorite contribution of all was coaching youth basketball.

Family was the cornerstone of Carl's world. His commitment to loved ones went beyond the ordinary; it was a deep-rooted dedication that manifested in every action, every smile and shared moment. He understood the true meaning of family - a source of strength, laughter, and unwavering support.

Carl is survived by his wife of sixty-two years, Jane, two children - Kaarin and Tony (married to Robin), two grandchildren - Isaiah and Wells, sister Julia Pigford, and brother Robert Pigford, sister-in-law Dianne Ward-Jones, nieces; Adele, Pam, Linda, Lisa, Erin, Terry, and Tiffany, nephews; Joe, David, Jean, Bruce, Robert, and Michael. Along with 18 grand- nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Lottie Pigford, and 5 siblings - Joseph, Russell, Josie, William, and Jean.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, February 8, 2024, at 1pm at St. John's Cathedral. 1350 N. Washington St. Denver, CO 80203.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the Joseph and Lottie Pigford Family Fund which helps support the academic achievement of students at Manual High School, which held a special place in Carl's heart.

The family expresses gratitude for the caregivers and friends whose love and compassion enriched Carl's final days.