Gertrude Loretta Colley

Gertrude was born to Rudolph and Hilda on January 8, 1922, in Ecorse, Michigan. She was their youngest child.

Gertrude attended school in Detroit, Michigan. She was confirmed at Calvary Lutheran Church, Lincoln Park, Michigan, in 1935.

In August of 1940, Gertrude married Carl G. Lepar. They had two children; Carl A. and Lynne. Carl G. passed away in December 1954.

After graduating from business school in 1955, Gertrude enjoyed working as a church secretary at Evergreen Lutheran Church in Detroit.

In August of 1958, Gertrude married USAF Captain James (Russ) Colley. Gertrude and Russ had three children, Kasey Anne, James Robert (Bob), and Kandy Marie.

The family traveled to a number of Air Force bases in the United States and were stationed on the island of Guam for 2 years before retiring in Aurora, Colorado, in 1970.

Gertrude was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She was an accomplished cook/baker and was always looking for new and interesting recipes to try. She loved to host get-togethers with family and friends and treat them to her latest culinary endeavor. In addition to her skills in the kitchen, Gertrude loved to try all sorts of embroidery, knitting, crocheting and made a number of hand-sewn quilts. She was an accomplished organist and enjoyed playing for her family. She also enjoyed a good Manhattan.

Gertrude is survived by her daughters, Lynne Brodd of Fort Lupton, Kasey Hagedorn of Brighton; her son Bob (Chris) of Thornton, 10 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Gertrude is predeceased by her husband Lt. Col Russ Colley, her parents, siblings Norman and Elinor, her son Carl and daughter-in-law Patricia, daughter Kandy Marie, and granddaughters Heather and Lori.

Funeral Services will be private. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Gertrude's favorite charity, the Denver Rescue Mission, or a charity of your choosing.