Gary Dee Fields, retired patent attorney, died peacefully in his home on April 18, 2019 in Parker CO at the age of 84.
Gary is survived by his wife Doris Fields; child Laura Fields-Warner; sibling, Jackie Castell and family of Houston TX; grandchildren Lindsey McVey and family, and Katie Warner. He is preceded in death by parents Jeff and Mabel Fields.
Gary was born on January 18, 1935 in Cincinnati Ohio to Jeff and Mabel Fields. He graduated from Iowa State University with a degree in Engineering. He then went on to Law school to become a Patent Attorney. He married Doris Beacom in 1959. After moving to Denver, Colorado later in 1959 he joined forces with H.B. Van Valkenburg eventually creating the firm of Van Valkenburg and Fields. From 1964 to 1966, Gary worked for Martin Marietta, (now Lockheed Martin) where he oversaw all intellectual property matters for that division. His job included interpreting and negotiating data and patent-right clauses in contracts with the United States Air Force and NASA. From 1966 to 1971 Gary began working for Kodak as Patent Counsel in Rochester New York. Gary and Doris welcomed Laura Fields into their lives in 1965. From 1971 to 1981 he was partner in the law firm of Sheridan, Ross, Fields and McIntosh, responsible for preparation and prosecution of patent applications in a wide variety of mechanical arts, patent litigation and extensive patent licensing. It was during this time that he patented the now well-known Kong toy for dogs. From 1981 to 1996 he was partner in the law firm of Fields, Lewis, Pittenger and Rost, engaged in substantially the same activities. His family remembers him as a kind, generous, and loving father who encouraged them to pursue their goals.
Gary was an accomplished sailor, often sailing the lakes of Colorado. He was a dedicated individual who was passionate about supporting small business and the Rotary Club. He was an active member of the Grace Baptist Church. He recently was given an honorary lifetime membership for 45 years of service in Cherry Creek Rotary Club of Parker. He enjoyed volunteering with Denver Boys (now Denver Kids).
He was deeply loved by family and friends alike and will be sorely missed.
A memorial service is scheduled for May 22 at 2pm at Grace Baptist Church in Parker CO. Pastor Ward Smith will officiate the ceremony. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Gary’s life. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Denver Kids at https://denverkidsinc.org/donate/
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