Jimmie E Ranson

Jimmie Earl Ranson 89, affectionately known as “Coach” called his final play on May 6, 2018. He was born June 7, 1928 in Florence, CO to the union of Foster Wilson and Marian (Harris) Ranson both precede him in death along with brothers, Ken and Foster Ranson; sister, Nellie Covington; and son-in-law Gene Skubal. He went to Colorado A&M (now CSU-Fort Collins), graduating in 1950 after playing four sports (football, basketball, baseball and track) for the Rams. As a first baseman, Ranson played on the only team in CSU history to play in the College World Series (1950). As a member of the track team, he set the Marine Corps record in the high jump (6-35⁄8).He was inducted into the CSU Hall of Fame in 2003.He served in United States Marines. He also was a long time member of the American Legion Post #2 and BPOE #90. A well loved educator and coach for 30 years beginning at Corwin Middle School in 1959 and retiring from Central High School in 1989. His love and dedication to Central always remained. In 2009 the Central High School gym court was named the “Jim Ranson Court”. He was also inducted into the Greater Pueblo Sports Hall of Fame in 1978 and into the Central Hall of Honor in 2010. He was known for taking many of his students under his wings and treating them as his own. He touched many lives of those who were taught, coached, and knew him. Jimmie is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Rochelle (Reynolds) Ranson; his children, Jimmie (Martha) Ranson, Cheryl Ranson-Skubal, Bradley (Lynn) Ranson, and Clay (Mindy) Ranson; grandchildren, Erica (Joey) Cardenas, Ricky Needham, Ben Ranson, Jack Ranson, Michael Ranson, and Lauren Ranson; great-grandchildren, Talon Cardenas, Gavyn Cardenas, Iliana Avila; in-laws, Donna (Willard) Pearl and Vicki Aragon; several nieces, nephews, and a host of colleagues, students, and friends who loved and will miss him dearly. In lieu of flowers and food, donations may be made to the Jim Ranson Basketball Scholarship Fund, through the funeral home. In honor of “Coach” please wear your favorite blue.