Gary Biesemeier

Gary Wayne Biesemeier, affectionately known to many as “Mr. B” or “Coach,” passed away peacefully at his winter home in Palm Desert, California, on March 8, 2026, at the age of 86.

A native of Haxtun, Colorado, Gary excelled in athletics, playing all varsity sports in high school. He earned an academic scholarship to the Colorado School of Mines, later studied at Adams State University, and completed his degree in Chemical Engineering at the University of Colorado at Boulder. In 1959 he was captivated by a photograph in The Denver Post of Dorene Jacobson, who had just been named Miss Martin in a Denver beauty pageant. Originally from Crosby, North Dakota, Dorene had moved to Denver with her best friend and was working for Martin-Marietta. After learning she was friends with his roommate’s girlfriend, Gary persisted until she agreed to a blind date on the shores of Sloan’s Lake. They were married in 1961 in Crosby, North Dakota, in a double wedding with her younger sister. The two couples remained happily married for decades.

While traveling as a salesman for Westvaco Corporation in the mid-1960s, Gary survived a Pan American flight hijacking to Cuba, an experience he later recounted with calm humor and courage. He owned and led Industrial Chemicals Corporation in Arvada, Colorado, for more than five decades, earning widespread respect for his innovative thinking, leadership, and integrity. He treated his employees as family, always placing their well-being first.

A devoted golfer and longtime member of The Club at Rolling Hills in Golden, Colorado, and Indian Ridge Country Club in Palm Desert, Gary practiced nearly every day for decades. He also coached Arvada peewee football for fifteen years, guiding two teams to the Carnation Bowl championship and inspiring countless young athletes long after his coaching days ended. Known everywhere for his kindness, generosity, humility, and quick wit, he brightened every room he entered and was regarded as a true class act.

He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Dorene; son Jay Biesemeier (Wendy); daughter Jamie Wilkins (John); and grandchildren Jordyn, Johnathan, Jillian, and Samantha. A celebration of life is planned for this summer in Colorado. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Haxtun Hospital Foundation.