The Tom Elder “Groovy Guy”
Scholarship
Tom Elder was a beloved husband, a cherished father, a great friend, and an extraordinary member of the Roaring Fork Valley community. After an almost decade-long battle with cancer, Tom passed away in January 2025. To honor Tom’s legacy, the family has created the Tom Elder “Groovy Guy” Scholarship to provide financial aid to graduating seniors in New Castle, Colorado.
About Tom
Tom was a fabulous father, great sibling, true friend and the best husband ever! He was an avid trail runner, golfer, kayaker and author. Tom was a local to the Roaring Fork Valley since the 70’s. He contributed to the growth of the valley through the building of bus stops, then driving the buses up and down the valley. He then entered the restaurant business, first at Little Annie’s and later managing the Red Onion and the Glenwood Canyon Brew Pub. He became a substitute teacher in the RE2 for 8 years. He was an amazing, caring member of the New Castle Community which he called home for the last 17 years. He dedicated his life to helping those around him. He was president of his HOA, a very active member of the New Castle Lions Club and chairman of the Climate Environment Commission.
He is survived by his loving wife Mary Johnson, his 2 sons, Dr. Alan Elder and Jack Elder, his former wife Denise Drake and his brothers Randy (Eileen) and Rich (Penny) & his sister Christina Margason. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.
He lived by his motto “do something nice for somebody” and always spread love and kindness wherever we went. Tom was always extremely passionate about higher education and was deeply fascinated with the capabilities of the human mind. He was an avid reader and writer. His work included a rhyming, mystical forest screenplay, a novel, and countless poems. Tom always put others before himself and had a deep desire to give back to the community and help those in need. Above all, Tom valued peace and love. To honor his legacy, Tom’s family has created the Tom Elder “Groovy Guy” Scholarship.
The Groovy Guy Scholarship
Tom often referred to folks as “groovy guy” or “groovy gal” and was himself one of the grooviest guys around.
The scholarship will be awarded annually to one or more graduating seniors from Coal Ridge High School. It will be in the amount of $1,000-$3,000 depending on how many students are selected. The award will go to students with financial need and a plan to pursue higher education.
Tom lived by the motto “do something nice for somebody” and was committed to spreading peace and love throughout the universe. The awarded student should have a dedication to making the world a better, more peaceful place.
Applications due by April 30th
Application
Donate
Tom was such a kind and generous soul who donated much of his time to the local community. Please help us continue his spirit by making a donation to his scholarship. 100% of donations will be awarded to students with financial need pursuing higher education.