Bradford Jefferson

Bradford Park Jefferson

December 23, 1951 - March 27, 2015

Brad Jefferson was born on December 23, 1951 in Quantico, Virginia, the second son of James M. Jefferson, Jr. and Phyllis (Frame) Jefferson. His life’s journey began as a military child which likely explains his affinity for road trips, his uncanny ability to think on his feet, and why he never met a stranger in his life.  His lifelong quest for adventure began as a youngster in Japan where his dad was stationed as a Naval attaché in Tokyo. The adventure continued to Camp Pendleton, California where Brad developed a passion for surfing. Soon to follow were snake hunting, golf, fishing, and an affinity for Porsches.

Brad graduated from Crescenta Valley High School in La Crescenta, California, then in 1971 he moved to Grand Junction, Colorado. He graduated from Mesa State College in 1976 with a B.A. in Biology. His early career included working on a BLM Wildfire Helitack crew — he was the first on-site medic to serve western Colorado wildfire base camps. Brad worked at the St. Mary’s Hospital ER and was instrumental in the development of the hospital’s Air Life program where he flew as a Paramedic on fixed wing and helicopter crews. He later moved to Snowmass Village, Colorado in the early ‘80s and worked as a Fireman and Paramedic for the Snowmass Village Fire Department. Brad then transitioned to a position as a police officer and eventually graduated to Sergeant with the Town of Snowmass Village. Brad saw his role as a police officer as an opportunity to help people — a reflection of his true nature.

While in Snowmass Village, Brad met Karen, the love of his life. After several years together in Snowmass, Brad and Karen moved to Fruita, Colorado where he continued his career in the medical field. Brad’s love for animals, both large and small, guided him to work as a Veterinary Technician.

Brad’s life and work were truly dedicated to serving and saving the lives of others. His long and accomplished career in public service provided support and mentorship to peers, inspiration and encouragement to co-workers, and provided the most cherished gift possible to the families of those whose lives he saved.

Brad was preceded in death by his parents, Jim Jefferson, Jr. and Phyllis Jefferson-Hippler. He is survived by his wife Karen; his brother Jeff (Melissa); niece Amy Wilkinson (AJ) and nephew Joe Wilkinson (Danielle); and grand nieces and nephews, Mila, Halle, Cope, and Adam.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made with Brad in your heart to the organization of your choice . A gathering of friends to honor Brad is planned for Saturday, April 11 ^th from 1 pm - 5 pm at The Golf Club at Redlands Mesa, 2325 West Ridges Boulevard, Grand Junction, CO.