Shirley Ann Laudenschlager

Shirley Ann (Matzoll) Laudenschlager, longtime Broomfield resident, passed away on December 16, 2025 in Longmont, Colorado at the age of 94. She was born on December 10, 1931, to Carl and Loretta Matzoll in Minneapolis, Minnesota. She and her younger sister, Mary Jane, spent their childhood swimming in local lakes, learning to golf from their father, and camping and fishing with their parents during summers in the lake country up north. Shirley graduated from the University of Minnesota and became a teacher, teaching mostly first grade throughout her career. Many of her former students from Broomfield still remember “Mrs. L” and speak fondly of her.

Shirley married Dutch Laudenschlager in 1956 in Minneapolis. Together they had three children—Julie, Joe, and Mary. Dutch’s career took the family to Des Moines, Seattle, and finally Broomfield. Dutch preceded her in death in 1973.

Shirley was very outgoing and remained active in sports and social activities until her body could no longer keep up. She performed in synchronized swimming shows with the Aqua Follies when she was in college. Shirley was an avid tennis player and golfer, scoring a couple of hole-in-ones. She had a close group of friends in Broomfield with whom she played bridge, went hiking, and enjoyed the Red Hat Society. After moving to Las Vegas to be near her daughter, Mary, she added tap dancing to her busy schedule. Shirley was also a devoted sports fan, cheering on the Las Vegas Golden Knights and the Denver Broncos.

A significant part of Shirley’s life was her grandchildren—Dave, Mike, and Katie—triplets born in 1996. She helped tirelessly with bottle feedings, outings, and field trips when they were young, and she never missed an opportunity to cheer them on at games and competitions.

Shirley is survived by her children: Julie (Tim) Stone of Longmont, CO; Joe Laudenschlager of Ogallala, NE; and Mary (Brad) Carpenter of Las Vegas, NV; her grandchildren: David Rosencrans of Arvada, CO; Mike Rosencrans of Westminster, CO; and Katie (Tyler) Kurtz of Gig Harbor, WA; her sister, Mary Jane (Fred) Zinn of Pinehurst, NC, and several nieces.

Shirley was a devout Catholic until the very end. A Celebration of Life will be planned in the new year.

Donations may be made to the Broomfield chapter of the PEO (Philanthropic Educational Organization). Please make checks payable to P.E.O. Chapter HG and mail to Dianne Henry, 14174 Davies Way, Broomfield CO 80023.