Gary Ray Ramstetter, a venerable pillar of the Alamosa community, known for his spirited passion and generosity, passed away at the age of 79 on December 27, 2025, at his home in Alamosa, Colorado. Born to Raymond Lewis and Abbie Elizabeth West Ramstetter on March 8, 1946, in Arvada, Colorado.

Gary was a proud graduate of Arvada West High School, after which he graduated from San Jose State University. His love for education was paralleled only by his love for wrestling, a sport that defined much of his life and legacy.

For 34 years, Gary dedicated himself to the art of coaching wrestling, serving as a head coach for 31 of those years. Beyond the mats and the gymnasium's echoes, he inspired countless young athletes with his leadership and unwavering commitment to excellence. Gary's contributions to Colorado wrestling were immeasurable, as evidenced by his induction into the Colorado High School Coaches Hall of Fame in 2008. His prowess and dedication were also recognized through multiple accolades, including being named the Colorado Coach of the Year four times and the National Region 6 Coach of the Year twice, and winning 12 State Championships. His lifetime of service to wrestling was honored with the Lifetime Service to Wrestling award from the Colorado Chapter of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame in 2012.

In addition to mentoring athletes, Gary shared his knowledge of cars and mechanics with students as the auto teacher at Alamosa High School, instilling in them the same precision and care that he brought to every endeavor.

Outside of work and wrestling, Gary was an avid hunter and fisherman, taking pleasure in the serenity of nature and the thrill of the catch. His love for cars was not just a profession but also a hobby, and many knew him to be under the hood, tinkering with an engine or polishing chrome. Morning strolls with his dog were a simple joy that underscored Gary's appreciation for life's quieter moments.

Gary is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Toni Ramstetter of Alamosa, and their sons, Clint Ramstetter of Lakewood and Jason (Julie) Ramstetter of Alamosa. He was a doting grandfather to Sammy Jo (Mike) Malouff, Tab K. (Jamie) Smith, and Garrett Smith, all of Alamosa, and was blessed to see the family continue to grow with his great-granddaughter, Ava Decker. His extended family included sister-in-law Vicki (Ralph) Turano of Arvada, sister-in-law Roberta Dionisio of Lakewood, and brother-in-law VJ (Connie) Dionisio of Highlands Ranch. His journey now joins those who preceded him in death: his parents and his brothers, Bill and Nick Ramstetter.

Gary Ramstetter will be remembered not just for his achievements and accolades, but for the indelible mark he left on the hearts of those he coached, taught, and loved. His memory will serve as a beacon for the values of hard work, integrity, and kindness. In Lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to Hospice Del Valle, 514 Main Street, Alamosa CO 81101.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 28, 2026 at the Plachy Hall Field House at Adams State University at 11 am. Rogers Family Mortuary is in care of arrangements to leave online condolences, tributes, stories or words of comfort for Gary's family please visit www.RogersFunerals.com.