Darin Grantham, 53, passed away on January 21, 2026, in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Born on January 15, 1973, in Minot, North Dakota, Darin lived a life marked by dedication to his family, passion for music and sports, and a strong work ethic that earned him recognition throughout his career.

Darin spent most of his formative years in Garrison, North Dakota, before graduating from high school in Bismarck, North Dakota, in 1991. His professional journey began in Bismarck, where he worked for Ludecer and Coventry Healthcare. During his tenure at Coventry, Darin was honored with the Superior Achievement Award—a testament to his commitment and excellence in the workplace. In later years, he continued to build his career with Cognizant and Virtix/CoroHealth.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Darin was known for his vibrant interests and deep connections with those around him. A devoted fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Los Angeles Dodgers, he followed both teams with unwavering enthusiasm. Music played a central role in Darin’s life. Though he enjoyed playing the guitar, his greatest joy came from sharing and celebrating music, which he did through a podcast, Tunes Brothers, co-hosted with friends. Darin was also an exceptional self-taught cook, best known for his love of grilling and smoking meats—often bringing people together around food he proudly prepared.

Darin’s greatest joy came from the love he shared with his family. He is survived by his loving wife of 20 years, Amber and their daughter Colbie; his mother Carol Knudtson; father and stepmother Harrison and Sharon Grantham; his sisters, Tracy (Pam) Bergerson and Mindy Grantham; mother-in-law Valerie Johnson; sister-in-law Nicole Hatch; brother-in-law Kelly (Zhenyang) Johnson; nephews Max Graves and Jacob Mitzel; nieces Carly Graves and Caitlyn Mitzel; step-brother Jason (Kristie) Schoenberg and family; step-sister Dawn (Jim) Hagar and family. His four beloved dogs—Lucy, Kiara, Hazel, and Bear—were also cherished members of the family.

He is reunited with those who preceded him in death: his stepfather, Larry Knudtson; his father-in-law, Leland Johnson; his grandparents; and his beloved dogs, Jackson, Deuce, Mowgli, Odyssey, and Stella.

Darin’s memory will live on through the many lives he touched—with laughter shared over music or sports debates, through quiet moments of kindness at home or work, or simply by being present as a husband, father, son, brother, uncle, colleague, or friend.

May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him—memorial services to be held at a later date. In place of flowers, the family welcomes memorial donations to suicide prevention or mental health organizations, in Darin’s memory and in support of hope, healing, and help for others. The family also has a GoFundMe link: