Connie Jaye Paich

With heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a beautiful life, we share that Connie Jaye Paich, 70, of Littleton, Colorado, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, February 26, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born January 23rd to Edward Nelson and Betty Radtke, Connie was raised in Englewood, Colorado alongside her two brothers and two sisters. From an early age, she carried the spark that so many would come to cherish — a quick wit, an unmistakable sense of humor, and true expertise in the kitchen, where many affectionately referred to her as "Connie Crocker."

While many will remember Connie for her humor and vibrant spirit, her life's true calling was serving others. She devoted more than 35 years to the field of dementia and Alzheimer's care, becoming a fierce advocate, educator, and compassionate guide for families navigating some of life's most difficult seasons. Connie earned her Bachelor of Science in Gerontology and Business Administration from Greeley and completed Dementia Care Training and Certification through the Alzheimer's Association. Her work was not just a profession — it was a mission rooted in empathy and dignity.

Even outside of her career, Connie's heart was always creating. Whether hiking Colorado's mountains, swaying to live jazz, or gathering with friends for brunch filled with laughter, she lived fully and intentionally. In her later years, she poured her knowledge and compassion into writing children's books about Alzheimer's, hoping to help young hearts understand love, memory, and loss with gentleness and truth.

Nothing in Connie's life meant more to her than her family. 

She is survived by her two daughters, Ashleigh Moller and Abigail Jorgensen, and her six grandchildren, who were the light of her life and the recipients of her endless love. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Mark Paich — the great love of her life — whose memory she carried faithfully in her heart.

One of the family's greatest comforts is that Connie lived long enough to hold the first hard copy of her children's book, Wise Wren and hHer Nana Who Has Alzheimer's, published by Black Spring Press, in her hands. She saw pre-sales rising and read the early glowing reviews with joy. It was her heartfelt wish to see her book make a difference in the world — one chapter, one child, one family at a time.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor Connie by purchasing her first published children's book through Amazon or Barnes & Noble — and by sharing it with someone who may need its message. 

Amazon: https://tinyurl.com/yhfc4ytp

Barnes & Noble: https://tinyurl.com/2hrha2s3

Connie's legacy lives on in the mountains she climbed, the music she loved, the families she helped, the pages she wrote, and most of all, in the hearts of those who were lucky enough to know her. The family is deeply grateful to the many friends and loved ones who have offered prayers, meals, calls, and comfort during this time. Connie built a community wherever she went, and that love has surrounded her family in return. A celebration of Connie's life will be held late Springtime in Littleton.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Connie Jaye Paich, please visit our floral store.