Elsie Ilene Rutledge

Elsie, a beloved grandmother, mother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 84, surrounded by an abundance of love, on October 28th, 2023. Her departure from this world leaves a void in our hearts but also fills us with warm memories of a life well-lived.

Elsie was born on January 22nd, 1939, to the late Andrew & Ruth Pickens and grew up in Eureka, KS, where she developed a strong sense of community and family values that would define her entire life. She graduated from high school in El Dorado, KS and married her first husband, Joseph Fowler. In her early 20s, she moved to Colorado where she worked at a dress store for a while. In 1966, she and Joseph divorced, and in 1968, she married her late husband, Robert Rutledge. Together, they started a janitorial business and then moved to Hot Sulphur Springs, CO in 1979, where she lived ever since. They bought a bowling alley in Kremmling, CO and ran it for a few years, even while she had her full-time receptionist job at the Grand County courthouse. After her 22 years there, she retired early and picked up miscellaneous jobs, tending bar, clerking stores, and waitressing, just to keep busy as she loved being active.

As a mother, Elsie was the epitome of unconditional love and support. She tirelessly cared for her children, guiding them through life's challenges and celebrating their successes. Her children, Jeanette Baughar, Jennifer Espinoza, and Roberta “Jeri” Corcorran, will forever cherish the values and love she bestowed upon them.

Elsie was also a doting grandmother, or “Grams,” to 10 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild who adored her gentle and loving spirit. Her presence brought warmth, comfort, and an unwavering sense of security to her family.

Elsie's love extended beyond her immediate family, touching the lives of countless friends and acquaintances. She was known for her fun and feisty spirit, her generous nature, and her strength, always ready with a helping hand whenever it was needed. Her impact on those around her was immeasurable.

Throughout her life, Elsie found joy in simple pleasures. She had an affinity for dancing, jewelry, shopping at garage sales and secondhand stores, visiting with friends and family, drinking black coffee, and enjoying white wine with diet 7-Up. Her favorite thing, however, was watching all of her grandchildren grow up.

Elsie is survived by a loving family, including her three daughters: Jeanette (Michael) Baughar, Jennifer (Robert) Espinoza, and Roberta Corcorran. She is also survived by her brother, Russell, and her sisters, Alice (Arthur), Alma, and Donna (Clyde). Elsie leaves behind a cherished legacy in her precious grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchild, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and friends who will carry her memory in their hearts. In addition to her parents, Elsie was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Rutledge, her sisters Maureen, Mable, Betty, and her brothers Andy, George, and Alan.

A funeral service for Elsie will be held on November 4th, 2023, at 2 pm at Olinger Highland Mortuary in Northglenn, immediately followed by a burial and then a celebration of life, which will be held at the Eagles Lodge at 8800 Federal Blvd. in Federal Heights.

As we bid farewell to our beloved Elsie “Grams,” let us remember her with love and gratitude, honoring the beautiful legacy she leaves behind. May her soul find eternal peace, and may her memory be a source of strength and inspiration to us all.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.olingerhighland.com for the Rutledge family.