Scott Fitzhugh Deem

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Scott Fitzhugh Deem, 76, of Conifer, Colorado. He passed away surrounded by loved ones on January 14, 2025, after a courageous battle with brain cancer. Scott lived a life marked by creativity, dedication, loyalty, and generosity. Born on November 11, 1948, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Scott lived life to the fullest. His love for playing sports budded early and bloomed all his life. Following his parents’ emphasis on education, Scott was a strong believer in the importance of academics. In 1967, he graduated from Rich East High School in Park Forest, IL. Scott attended Northern Illinois University, where he played one year of college football and earned his marketing degree in 1971 before heading west. After settling briefly in Denver, Scott made his home in Conifer, Colorado, a small mountain town where he would build a legacy of community involvement and professional excellence.

 He worked in construction for many years and had his hand in the creation of many homes and buildings throughout the Conifer/Evergreen area before starting his own company, Rancho Deluxe. His crowning achievement was the development of Conifer Ridge, a stunning custom home community reflecting his love for the mountains. Scott retired in 2022 after completing one final, remarkable home—a fitting close to a remarkable career. He ended on a good one. Scott’s impact extended well beyond his professional life. He contributed to Habitat for Humanity, helping to build homes for underserved communities, and played a pivotal role in the growth of the youth camp, Ramah of the Rockies. If he wasn’t on a job site or with his girls, he was in a gym. A wise mentor and passionate coach, Scott dedicated a remarkable 35 years to coaching girls’ basketball. He impacted countless student-athletes with his wisdom and encouragement. The heart of his coaching career lies with the D’Evelyn High School and Conifer High School girls’ basketball programs. At the time of his passing, the Conifer High School girls’ varsity team was ranked 22nd, and if the season ended that day, the team would be headed to the playoffs. He was so proud of that success. He ended on a good one. Perseverance and commitment were the cornerstones of Scott’s life. His daily workouts remained a priority even during his battle with cancer. A proud member of the “1% Club,” Scott completed the grueling Tough Mudder competition at age 63, ranking in the top 1% of competitors over 60. 

He continued to play competitive tennis and cherished the ability to do so. He never stopped. He never slowed down. He lived fully until he died. He ended on a good one. In his downtime, Scott found peace, quiet, and freedom in riding horses, walking dogs, writing, and playing music. He loved a good concert, especially if it was at Red Rocks. He was always up for catching a ball game, whether it was high school, the Nuggets, or the Rockies. He came to life around a campfire with family and friends, and if one was truly lucky, they got to hear him play the harmonica. He greeted every sunrise and sunset with gratitude. He ended on a good one. Above all else, Scott loved his family. He was patient and present, always teaching, guiding, and providing. He had a high standard for a proper hug. He ended on a good one. Scott was preceded in death by his parents, Tom and Mary Ann Deem. 

He is survived by his soulmate and wife of 42 years, Jill Deem. He is the proud father of his three daughters: Joany Tisdale, Kira Ruybalid, and Tonya Deem, and his son-in-law, Mark Ruybalid. He is the proudest grandpa to his grandchildren: Liliana and Christian Tarud; Ari and Zahara Ruybalid; and Shealynn, Kailani, and Lexi Chapman. Scott is also survived by his three sisters: Jackie Humphrey, Becky Walroth, and Sharon Deem; his sisters-in-law, Janet Wallace and Jane Weber; as well as many cherished nieces and nephews. Scott lived a life of legacy and integrity. His warmth, generosity, and genuine care for others touched the lives of many, and he would want to celebrate with them all. 

So let's end it on a good one. If Scott touched your life, please join the family for a celebration of life open house from 2-4 p.m. on February 23, 2025, at Evergreen Memorial Park, 26624 N. Turkey Creek Rd., Evergreen, Colorado. 

In lieu of gifts, donations, or flowers, please pay it forward for Scott by doing kind things for others and always end on a good one