Obituary of Cynthia (Cyd) Carlson

Cynthia (Cyd) Carlson age 68, passed away on April 9, 2023 after a brief but fierce battle with Pancreatic cancer. She was born a fiery redhead on July 11, 1954 in Kingston, Rhode Island to Betty and Melvin Columbia. Being a military brat, she moved around before settling in Massachusetts with her mother, bonus father Alfred Ricottilli, and siblings. Cyd was the oldest of five children and wore her big sister badge like a medal of honor, though her siblings might have called it the “most bossy” badge. She was a lover of music and always had it playing whether it be in the car, at home, or at work. Cyd was a voracious reader, always having a book in hand with her nose buried deep in its pages. She loved a dirty martini and collecting people who didn’t feel like they fit in anywhere. She herself didn’t always know where she fit in and spent her life looking for a sense of belonging. She was in constant motion seeking new ideas, new purpose, new loves and a community that offered total acceptance of her. She loved motorcycles, cigars, costume jewelry, crocheting, Givenchy perfume, horticulture and baking. She had a sweet tooth and would do just about anything for a Volmer’s chocolate cake.

Cyd had four daughters that she passed along her love of music and reading to. She could have won an Olympic medal for grudge holding if anybody did wrong by them. Her grandchildren were the most important people in her life. She was a present and loving Nana that showered them with so much affection.

Cyd was preceded in death by her parents, her dearest brother Fred, several close friends and a big love she was anxious to see again. She leaves behind: Daughters: Rebecca Mason, Jessica (Jeff) Sirovatka, Melissa Mason, Amanda (Ben) Sisco, Stepdaughter Lisa Jainchill; Siblings Connie (Dan) Cisz, Mark (Sharon) Columbia, MaryRose Giuliano along with her beloved grandchildren. Cyd also leaves behind her curiosity, love of music and standing up for the forgotten ones. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to www.Maxfund.org.

There will be a local memorial open house gathering at Charlie Brown’s located at 980 Grant St, Denver, CO 80203 on Saturday April 29th at 4pm – 7pm. If you are looking to pay your respects, please join us for a dirty martini.