Artist killed in Fremont County was big in the community

If you see a mural on the side of a building in Fremont County, chances are it’s by John Alderman.

From western murals to sculptures, Alderman’s work was diverse. But according to his longtime friend, Lynn Lemmon-Oliver, Alderman said he was just getting back into it after taking a break to run a marijuana grow operation.

“He was happy and talking about painting again, talking about getting back into the art world because he had not been doing anything for a bit in terms of art,” Lemmon-Oliver said.

Alderman was found dead Tuesday. We know very little else, but it is being investigated by the Fremont County Sheriff’s Office as a homicide.

“We’re asking anyone that knows anything or thinks that information may be helpful, even if it seems little to them, you know, we would really need to hear that,” said Sgt. Megan Richards.

Lemmon-Oliver, who owns Blue Spruce gallery in Florence, said Alderman was a resident artist there for several years. While only a few of his pieces are left, she says he was well-known.

“John was just the nicest guy you’d ever want to meet, biggest heart. He would do anything for anybody,” Lemmon-Oliver said.

Alderman left his mark all over the area. One of his murals is on the side of a building in downtown Canon City.

“It’s a blow. It’s a loss to the community, the art community,” Lemmon-Oliver said.

But for his friends, his life will live on through his work.

A family friend sent us a statement from his family.

“The John Alderman family is grateful for the kind words of condolence and prayers during this time of tragedy. They are very thankful for the Fremont County Sheriff’s Office and Coroner Randy Keller for their hard work and dedication in solving John’s murder. They have no information to release at this time.”