Marlene Ann Gardels

Marlene A. Gardels, age 89, passed away peacefully at her home in Northglenn, Colorado on June 9, 2026 surrounded by the comfort of the home and family she cherished. She was born on July 27, 1936 in Norfolk, Nebraska to Hubert Koeller and Genevieve Rhemus Koeller.

Marlene graduated from high school in Norfolk, Nebraska before making Colorado her home. She lived in Northglenn for more than six decades, having settled there in 1960. From 1971 until her retirement in 1990, Marlene worked for US West Communications, where she served as Manager of Payroll Taxes. She was respected for her dedication, professionalism, and strong work ethic.

A devoted member of her community, Marlene served as President of the Telephone Pioneers Foothills Chapter and was an active member of Elks Lodge #2438 in Northglenn. She valued friendships, community involvement, and the connections she built throughout her life.

Marlene found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved playing the organ, tending to her flower gardens, playing cards with friends, completing crossword puzzles, jigsaw puzzles, traveling, and preparing meals for those she loved. Family gatherings and holiday celebrations were especially important to her, and her homemade pies became a treasured tradition that will be fondly remembered by all who shared her table.

Above all, Marlene was devoted to her family. After her husband Gary became ill, she lovingly cared for him for many years with unwavering strength and dedication. Through her kindness, generosity, and steadfast support, she became the glue that held her family together. Her home was a place of warmth, comfort, and unconditional love.

Marlene was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Gary L. Gardels; her father, Hubert Koeller; her mother, Genevieve Rhemus Koeller; and her brother, Lawrence Koeller.

She is survived by her brother, Harold Koeller (Carol) of Oceanside, CA; sons who reside in Denver, CO; Stephen P. Gardels and Craig E. Gardels (Valerie); her grandchildren, Karlee Ramirez (Daniel), Lisa Feagler (Aaron), Laura Birt, and James Gardels; and her cherished great-grandchildren, Kaleb, Logan, Luke, Makinley, Hadley, Hudson, Jaylene, and Jovanni. She also leaves behind numerous extended family members and friends who will miss her deeply.

A funeral service celebrating Marlene’s life will be held at Olinger Highland Chapel Funeral Home in Thornton, CO on Tuesday June 23, 2026 at 1:30 p.m. A reception will follow at Elks Lodge in Northglenn, where family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and celebrate her life.

Her family finds comfort in knowing that her legacy of love, strength, generosity, and devotion to family will live on through the many lives she touched. Marlene will be deeply missed and forever remembered.