With profound sadness, we remember Gleda M. Estes, a trailblazer in rocketry and a fervent advocate for education. Gleda peacefully departed on March 30, 2024, at the age of 92, leaving a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations.
Born Gleda Kane on March 4, 1932, in a farming community near Clarinda, Iowa, she was the youngest of eight children. Gleda attended a one-room schoolhouse before moving to Clarinda in 1946 for high school. During this time, she lived with the William C. Hemphill family, providing housekeeping, cooking, and childcare in exchange for room and board.
Initially aspiring to a nursing career, Gleda worked part-time at a local hospital during her senior year. In 1950, she began her studies at Central College in McPherson, Kansas, where she met her future husband, Vernon Estes, in a chemistry class. They married on May 16, 1951, and settled in the Denver area, where they welcomed their three daughters: Betty, Sharon, and Linda. Together, they embarked on a groundbreaking journey, founding Estes Industries, Inc. in 1958, which revolutionized the model rocketry industry.
As a co-founder of Estes Industries, Gleda was Vern’s steadfast partner, supporting their venture into the burgeoning field of model rocketry. The company, initially a modest mail-order business, grew alongside the US Space Program, contributing to the technological advancements that popularized rocketry as a hobby. Gleda's administrative acumen and dedication complemented Vern’s technical expertise, making model rocketry accessible to enthusiasts of all ages. Her efforts laid the groundwork for the modern rocketry movement, inspiring countless individuals to reach for the stars.
Gleda played a pivotal role in the early days of their company, handling tasks such as rolling body tubes, typesetting, printing instructions, and stitching the first Estes catalogs on her sewing machine. She managed bookkeeping, packed rocket kits, and processed orders. After the company relocated to Penrose in 1961, Gleda oversaw the largest division at Estes Industries, ensuring timely production and shipment of kits. Her department managed mass mailings of catalogs and publications, and she was known as the go-to person for customer service. By the time Estes Industries was sold to the Damon Corporation in 1969, Gleda was managing over 150 employees.
Upon retiring in 1972, Gleda was honored by approximately 35 plant supervisors for her dedicated service. Even after retirement, she continued to work with Vern on entrepreneurial ventures and pursued her own investments from their office in Canon City. Gleda was actively involved in community economic and social organizations and contributed significantly to her church’s youth and music programs.
Beyond her achievements in rocketry, Gleda was a passionate advocate for education, understanding the importance of nurturing young minds. In recognition of her commitment to empowering young women, her eldest daughter established the Gleda M. Estes Scholarship through the National Association of Rocketry. This scholarship supports female students pursuing STEM degrees, ensuring Gleda’s legacy continues to inspire future engineers and innovators.
Gleda was cherished by the model rocketry community, remembered for her enthusiasm, kindness, generosity, and love for learning. Her legacy, through the scholarship in her name, will continue to inspire young dreamers worldwide.
Gleda is survived by her husband of nearly 73 years, Vernon D. Estes, and their daughters Betty Geer, Sharon Estes, and Linda (Dale) Musgrave. She also leaves behind six grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, eight step-great-grandchildren, and seven step great-great-grandchildren. Her family and friends will cherish her memory for years to come.
Private services will be held locally through Holt Funeral Home in Cañon City, CO. A celebration of her life is planned in conjunction with the National Association of Rocketry Annual Meet in early August 2024, near Pueblo, Colorado.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Gleda M. Estes Scholarship Fund through the National Association of Rocketry.