Marilyn Ann Penley

Marilyn Ann Penley, passed away peacefully at her home in Pueblo West, surrounded by family, on October 5, 2025. A resident of Pueblo/Pueblo West since 1963, Marilyn was a devoted member of the First United Methodist Church since her arrival in Pueblo.

She was born in Northwood, Iowa, on April 26, 1929 to Walter Roy Johnson and Lydia A. (Bonker) Johnson.

Marilyn enjoyed a fulfilling career as an administrator at Colorado State University Pueblo. After retiring, she worked at Desert Hawk Golf Course and continued golfing avidly until the age of 85. She also volunteered at Rosemount Museum and the Assistance League. Rosemount Museum honored her in 2018 by nominating her as an Outstanding Woman Volunteer in Pueblo.

She enjoyed a very active life with many friends, and she traveled extensively throughout the world with her husband Robert (Bob) Penley. She was a regular in bridge and mahjong groups and continued to play mahjong up to two weeks before her death.

She is preceded in death by husbands Robert H Gaarder and Robert Penley, and daughter Linda Drummond. She is survived by her son Robert Gaarder (Janet), daughter Patricia Gaarder, grandchildren Jason Drummond, Cory Leyba, Tawnee Gaarder, Kendra Gaarder, Kyle Gaarder, and eight great grandchildren.

Special thanks to her devoted caregivers Leticia and Stephanie; friends Kitty, Judy and neighbors Micky and Dan, all who helped her to remain in her home until her death.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the First United Methodist Church of Pueblo in Marilyn’s memory.

A memorial service will be held at First United Methodist Church, located at 310 W 11th St, Pueblo, CO, 81003, US. The service is scheduled for November 22, 2025, at 11:00 am.