Elizabeth & Parker Funeral Homes Obituaries

A Compassionate and Professional Funeral Home in Elizabeth, CO

Elizabeth & Parker Funeral Homes is a trusted and respected funeral home located in the heart of Elizabeth, Colorado. With a commitment to providing exceptional service and compassionate care, this funeral home has been serving the local community for many years. In this article, we will delve into the history, services, and amenities offered by Elizabeth & Parker Funeral Homes, as well as what sets them apart from other funeral homes in the area.

A Brief History of Elizabeth & Parker Funeral Homes

Elizabeth & Parker Funeral Homes has a rich history that dates back many years. Founded on the principles of compassion, respect, and dignity, this funeral home has been dedicated to providing families with the highest level of care and support during their time of need. Over the years, the funeral home has built a reputation for excellence, earning the trust and confidence of the local community.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Erin Laura Pfannenstiel - June 02, 1988 - November 17, 2020

Departed: 11/17/2020 (Elizabeth)

Obituary Preview: Erin Laura (O’Brien) Pfannenstiel, age 32, was born June 2, 1988 in Lakeville, MN and passed away suddenly November 17, 2020. Erin lived her life amplified. She loved hard and fast — poised and wild, with a bigger spirit than this world could contain. Her love for animals and people alike was always the center of her world. Her life was centered on making sure her family, friends and animals had a wonderful life and amazing experiences. Erin loved to sing, dance, and entertain and planted seeds of joy everywhere. Erin easily made friends and new family wherever she went, which is evident from her loved ones far and wide. She loved to host and cook for loved ones and always made everyone feel welcome and loved. Her smile would light up rooms and hearts. Her passing will leave a void in many of our lives. Erin grew up in Lakeville, Minnesota where she spent her days cultivating adventure, taking chances and becoming the independent and confident woman we all love. Erin began riding horses at age 3, which became a lifelong passion. Her childhood was filled with beloved animals including birds, rats, cats, dogs, and horses. Erin grew up with her horse, Val, who is as loyal, loving and bold as her — a true lifelong pair. Erin made many friends in her childhood who hold fond memories of her and have continued their friendships despite time and distance apart. Erin always had a giving heart and a deep love for her family. As a young woman, she lost her mother and continued to live life to the fullest and made her mother incredibly proud of the independent, strong and feisty woman she grew into. Erin moved to Colorado to seek out adventure, nature, and the Mountain West she so loved. She thrived in her new environment, making new friends, tackling challenges head on and building a full and colorful life. On August 31, 2013 Erin married the love of her life, Jamie Pfannenstiel, he survives. As an adult, Erin settled into a life of joy filled with animals, food, and friends. She cared for her daughter, home and husband, Jamie, with beauty and grace. As a family they enjoyed home cooked meals from around the world, spending time outdoors, and loved vacationing on the beach. Erin and Ruby spent time together training and riding horses, caring for dogs, and dancing around the living room. She ensured that her family stayed close and helped support a strong bond between both of her children, Brian and Ruby, as well as Brian’s adoptive parents, Jaime and Joe, and Brian’s siblings, Josie and Katy. Her sacrifices for her children were many and large, but she always did what was best for each of them with a full heart. Erin worked as a vet tech, hard-working ranch hand, and ran a small pet care business ensuring her family home was overflowing with love and affection. Her clients — both 2- and 4-legged — trusted and loved her for her diligent and warm care. Erin also continued to be involved with horses in multiple ways including training horses, trail-riding, cow roundups, and continuing to care for her horse soulmate, Val. Erin has taught us to live wildly, love fiercely, eat amazing food, give a little extra love and affection, and to wake up each morning with a sense of curiosity and wonder. Her presence, cooking, laughter, songs, and joy will be missed by many. Erin is survived by her husband, Jamie, Parker CO., daughter Ruby of the home, son Brian, Minneapolis, MN, her father Steve O’Brien and his partner Candace O’Rourke, Grand Junction CO., her grandparents, Gertrude O’Brien, Bloomington MN and Lila Kersey, 50 Lakes, MN and many friends and family who will greatly miss her. Erin was preceded in death by her mother, Linda O’Brien, many beloved friends and animals that will greet and surround her with love on the other side, until we meet again. Due to COVID, a memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made in care of Parker Funeral Home, 10325 Parkglenn Way, Parker CO 80138.

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Brandon Michael Gay - September 11, 1990 - November 16, 2020

Departed: 11/16/2020 (Elizabeth)

Obituary Preview: Brandon Michael Gay was born on September 11, 1990, in Morgan City, Louisiana.  He attended Berwick Elementary and Berwick Junior High in Louisiana, while graduating as a Commended Scholar from The Woodlands High School in the The Woodlands, Texas.  He began his undergraduate studies at the Louisiana Scholars’ College at Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, LA, and completed his Bachelor of Science degree in Biology at Texas A&M in College Station, TX.  After graduation, he began his brewing career at Lone Pint in Magnolia, TX, continued at Epic in Denver, and found his niche with the Trve Brewing family in Denver, CO. He was an avid fan of Texas A&M football and was an ardent Houston Astros supporter.  He also was widely read and had a passion for heavy metal music. He loved good food (especially that of his mama’s), and was a beer enthusiast.  He enjoyed jeeping, drumming, traveling, and kayaking. He loved his cats, Ivan the Purrible and Bleu. He was known for his infectious smile, easy laugh, and unique facial hair stylings.

He is survived by his parents Barry and Bridget (Parsley) Gay of Castle Rock, CO; siblings Richard Metcalf (and wife Michelle) of Jennings, LA, Amy O’Leary of London, UK, Bronwyn (Gay) Wronko (and husband Tony) of Omaha, NE, and Bridgette Jeanne (Gay) Billioux, MD of Washington, DC; nieces and nephews Alex and Destini Metcalf and Andyn Gay and Dagen Wronko; and godparents Tolley Michael Parsley and Mary Anne Hadaway.  He was preceded in death by his brother Barry Zachary Gay.

Please strongly consider a donation in lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the memorial fund in Brandon’s name at Trvebrewing.com.

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John Harvey Perkins - June 01, 1956 - June 04, 2020

Departed: 06/04/2020 (Elizabeth)

Obituary Preview: John Harvey Perkins

A Cowboy, a Hunter, A Builder, A Fighter, A Husband, Father, Friend and Brother joined our Lord and Savior on June 4, 2020, after a long series of surgeries and illness.  The world was a better place with John in it.

John was born June 1, 1956 in Bloomington, Minnesota.  After the loss of his oldest sister, Rita Ann, the family moved to Prior Lake, Minnesota and then to Burnsville, Minnesota.  In 1970 the family moved to Ash Lake, Minnesota near the Canadian border. The family had a hunting and fishing cabin and property there for many years prior to making it their permanent home.  This is where John learned logging and trapping alongside his father and younger brothers.  This is also where John perfected his hunting skills.

After graduation from Orr High School John moved back to the Minneapolis area and like his father, became a highly skilled craftsman in carpentry and home building.  It was during this period he was given the nickname:  the Country Bumpkin.

In approximately 1982 John moved to Colorado and furthered his home building career.  He was also involved in ranching and guiding hunts for the skilled and unskilled which produced many stories to be told in a way only John could tell them.

John and Connie were married on March 29, 2003.  During their 17 years of marriage, Connie saw that John had a God given talent of bringing old houses and barns back to life.  He and his wife worked hand in hand and were both blessed to receive the satisfaction of their toil.  Both being musically talented, when John wasn't on his drums and Connie wasn't singing, they loved to dance with each other.

John was known not just for his craftsmanship and hunting skills, but his unending humor, the perfect dimples when he smiled, and his love of the Cowboy Church.

His heartfelt pride and joy and what he saw as his biggest accomplishment were his two children, Sam and Becca. His face always beamed brightly whenever he spoke of his children.  John started teaching his children to hunt and shoot when they were very young, and he was proud of how skilled they had become. These were very beloved moments for him which he expressed often.

John was preceded in death by his parents and oldest sister.  He is survived by his wife Connie, his son Sam, daughter Becca, and his brothers and sisters, Chuck, Donna, Mary, Dan, Cindy, Rene, and Steve.

John is loved by many family and friends and will be greatly missed always.

May John rest in peace.

There will be a memorial service at the Cowboy Church, 95 Ute Avenue in Kiowa, on Wednesday, June 10, 2020 at 6:00 PM  Immediately following the service, a celebration of life for all family and friends will take place at 9006 Hwy 86, Kiowa.

The family would like to suggest donations be made to the Cowboy Church at "Save the Cowboy"  PO Box 428  Kiowa, CO 80017, or to a charity of your choice in John's name to honor him.

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Billy Eugene Shiery - February 09, 1952 - May 31, 2020

Departed: 05/31/2020 (Elizabeth)

Obituary Preview: Forthcoming

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Michael "Mickey" Beschorner - May 22, 1959 - May 30, 2020

Departed: 05/30/2020 (Elizabeth)

Obituary Preview: At this time, the family is hosting a private celebration of Mickey's life.

Mickey Beschorner, 61, of Elizabeth, CO passed away at home on May 30, 2020.  He was born on May 22, 1959 and had just celebrated a birthday!  He was born in Emmetsburg, Iowa to Robert and Ethel (Boles) Beschorner.

After graduating from high school, Mickey married Helen in 1981 in Algona, Iowa and began working in the custom home contracting business and eventually owned Beschorner Construction.  He enjoyed hunting, fishing, boating,wood crafting, and cooking.

He is predeceased by his father, Robert, mother, Ethel, and a brother, Robert (Bobbie).

He is survived by his wife, Helen, sons Andy, Adam, Aaron, and Alex all of Elizabeth, CO, a daughter Autumn and grandson Bryce, also of Elizabeth, CO, a daughter-in-law Adrienne of Arthur, Nebraska, and a son-ion-law Taiven of Colorado Springs, CO. Four loving grandchildren also survive Mickey: Fallyn, StevieJo, Gabriel, and Wayne.

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Marjorie Ann Muench - July 11, 1919 - May 29, 2020

Departed: 05/29/2020 (Elizabeth)

Obituary Preview: Marjorie Ann (Williams) Muench

Marjorie Ann (Williams) Muench died peacefully, at age 100, in hospice at Pine Grove Crossing on May 29, 2020. Born July 11, 1919 on her family farm in Macoupin County, Illinois, Marjorie was the eldest daughter of Clara Mae and John Williams. She is preceded in death by her parents, her brothers (Harold, Kenneth, and Melvin), her sisters (Dorothy and Olive), her husband (John D. Muench), and her eldest son (John F.). Marjorie is survived by her son Robert (Shirley) Muench, and by her five daughters Ann (Rob Elbl) Muench, Susan (Giedrius) Ploplys, Melanie Muench-Day, Katherine (Brian Eldredge) Muench, and Elizabeth (Ray) Bican. She is also survived by 10 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren, 2 great-great granddaughters, and a few generations of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Marjorie attributed her long life to growing up on a farm and drinking lots of milk. She enjoyed riding her horse Prince five miles to a one-room school house with her brother, and tells how the teacher had her recite the alphabet both forwards and backwards when she ran out of things to do—an accomplishment Marjorie could perform all her life. Marjorie also recalled not really being aware of the great depression, because life on the farm was much the same—hand to mouth. However, she did remember her mother feeding sandwiches to hobos who came by more often.

Marjorie met her future husband John Muench when she entered high school in Carlinville, IL. She graduated in 1936, and they married in 1938, continuing to live in central Illinois until moving to Syracuse, NY in 1941, where their first son was born. In 1942, Marjorie and John returned to Illinois and lived in Springfield and then Carlinville areas where their next two children were born. In 1949, Marjorie and John moved to La Grange Highlands, a western suburb of Chicago, where their next three daughters were born; and then in 1960 they moved to the “big” house in La Grange, where they welcomed their fifth daughter. Although Marjorie was a more traditional at-home Mom, she did learn to play Bridge and enjoyed it immensely. She was also proud to be a part of the local chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

After losing her husband in 1998, Marjorie decided to join two of her daughters living in Colorado. At age 82, Marjorie moved to Parker, and a year later bought a condominium. She thoroughly enjoyed the Parker Senior Center, where she met marvelous people who also played Bridge. Marjorie also enjoyed her FaceBook friends and FaceTime calls and learning about her ancestry. In 2008, Marjorie brought one more “child” into her life—her little dog “Buddy”—and remarked that if it weren’t for Buddy, some days she wouldn’t even bother to get up.

In the spring of 2019, Marjorie’s eldest son passed due to complications with Alzheimer’s. Though devastated, she agreed to continue plans for her 100th birthday “party,” but did not want it to be a celebration. However, Marjorie was very pleased so many friends and family came from near and far to be with her. And, her friends and family are grateful for the time they had with her that week, and all the time that followed. Marjorie marveled at why several little children seemed enamored with someone who was 100 years old. She never felt that she was all that old, and she always loved babies. Somehow, they knew Marjorie was a kind soul and a very giving person.

In November 2019, Marjorie, who was living on her own in her condo, fell and broke her wrist. She reluctantly agreed to a short-term stay at an assisted living residential home for rehab of her wrist and to regain her mobility. In January, Marjorie became ill with pneumonia and sepsis, and was admitted to ICU for three nights and then their cardiac floor for additional care. Next, she spent three weeks at a rehabilitation center. Marjorie transitioned to a more permanent assisted living situation where she was just settling in when the facility went into lockdown mode for prevention of the COVID-19 virus. The family believes the care Marjorie received over the past year, and especially the last six months, was excellent and essential. Marjorie was a very strong person, and she will be sorely missed by her family and friends, who take comfort in knowing she is now at peace. In deep appreciation for all the wonderful work various healthcare professionals and organizations have provided to Marjorie and her family, the family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Suncrest Hospice The Bristol Foundation 206 North 2100 West. Ste. 202 Salt Lake City, UT  84116 801.325.0175 bristolfoundation.org

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Jean Keeney - Unknown - May 29, 2020

Departed: 05/29/2020 (Elizabeth)

Obituary Preview: Jean Donnell (Yates) Keeney, 85, passed away on May 28, 2020 after a lengthy battle with heart disease and dementia. She passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, at Pine Trail Memory Care in Castle Rock, Colorado.

Jean was born November 14, 1934 in Rock Springs, Wyoming and was raised in Green River, Wyoming. She graduated from Green River High School in 1953, then attended the University of Wyoming. Before completing her degree, she married the love of her life, Allen Keeney, in 1955 and had three wonderful children. She then decided to return to school and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Art Education in 1969.

Jean worked for the Sweetwater County School district as a substitute teacher before becoming a full-time art teacher in the elementary grades. Jean retired from teaching in 1992 to enjoy her grandchildren and to travel. After retirement, when Jean wasn’t traveling or playing with her grandchildren, she spent her time volunteering with programs such as: Meals on Wheels, the Church of the Holy Communion Episcopal Thrift Shop and Alter Guild, just to name a few. Jean moved to Castle Rock, Colorado in 2013 to be closer to her family.

Jean loved spending time with friends and family and always enjoyed chatting over a hot cup of tea or a glass of red wine. She was dedicated to her church and was proud of her English heritage. She was an avid reader of mystery and history novels. Jean was passionate about all of the arts and spent much of her time painting.  She kept active by volunteering, swimming, and keeping up with her grandchildren. However, anyone who knew her, knew her true passion was her dogs, more specifically, basset hounds. Jean is survived by: her son, Lane Keeney and spouse, Grace of Gillette, Wyoming; her daughter, Dawn (Keeney) Koltiska and spouse, Robert, of Franktown, Colorado; her granddaughters: Elizabeth Keeney, of Gillette Wyoming, Kristine Koltiska, of Castle Rock, Colorado, Megan Koltiska, of Sheridan, Wyoming, Katalina Mulligan and spouse Kendra, of Aurora, Colorado; her grandsons: Brandon Koltiska, of Franktown, Colorado, James Mulligan, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and Derrick Baptist, of Tulsa, Oklahoma; one great granddaughter, Myka, and two great grandsons, Curtis and Preston; her niece, Kathy (Yates) Shupe and her nephews, Greg Yates and Brad Yates. She was preceded in death by: her husband, Allen Keeney; Brother, William Yates; and Daughter, Gail Keeney - Mulligan. She will be remembered for her compassionate heart, quick wit, loving spirit and “stiff upper lip.”

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Garth MacLeod Willson - January 13, 1966 - May 27, 2020

Departed: 05/27/2020 (Elizabeth)

Obituary Preview: Garth MacLeod Willson, 54, of Elizabeth, CO passed away on May 27, in Parker, CO.  He was born on January 13, 1966 in Groton, CT.  He attended Natrona High School graduating in 1984, then on to the University of Wyoming.  He married Nancy (Roberts) in 2008 in Castle Rock, CO, blending and building a beautiful family. Garth spent much of his time working in the automobile sales industry as a Director of Finance. He brought laughter and joy to every life he touched, while living his life to the fullest doing what he loved most- Hockey, diving, boating, gambling and watching the Yankees play ball!

He is survived by his wife Nancy of the home, and son, Landon, also of Elizabeth, CO, his daughter Caden of Parker, CO, his brother Justin Willson of Topeka, KS and a nephew Michael Willson, also of Topeka, KS.  He is also survived by his step-children Cheyanne (Colton) Korinek of Kiowa, and Clancy Goggin, of Elizabeth, CO.

He was predeceased by his father Eugene Terry Willson.

PLEASE plan to park at the Safeway or Library in Elizabeth at the committal service at the cemetery.... This allows us to mindful of other cemetery visitors and to leave the highway passable.

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Services Offered by Elizabeth & Parker Funeral Homes

Elizabeth & Parker Funeral Homes offers a wide range of services to meet the unique needs of each family they serve. From traditional funeral services to cremation options, memorial services, and celebrations of life, this funeral home provides personalized attention to detail and compassionate care. Their experienced staff is dedicated to helping families create meaningful tributes that honor their loved ones.

Funeral Services at Elizabeth & Parker Funeral Homes

At Elizabeth & Parker Funeral Homes, families can choose from a variety of funeral service options, including traditional funerals, graveside services, and memorial services. Their experienced staff will work closely with families to create a personalized service that reflects the personality and spirit of their loved one. From selecting music and flowers to choosing a casket or urn, every detail is carefully considered to ensure a meaningful and memorable service.

Cremation Options at Elizabeth & Parker Funeral Homes

In addition to traditional funeral services, Elizabeth & Parker Funeral Homes also offers cremation options for families who prefer this type of disposition. Their staff is knowledgeable about the cremation process and can guide families through the various options available, including direct cremation, cremation with a memorial service, and cremation with a traditional funeral service.

Amenities at Elizabeth & Parker Funeral Homes

The facilities at Elizabeth & Parker Funeral Homes are designed to provide comfort and convenience for families during their time of need. The funeral home features a spacious chapel, comfortable visitation rooms, and ample parking. Additionally, their staff is happy to assist with arrangements for out-of-town guests, including accommodations and transportation.

What Sets Elizabeth & Parker Funeral Homes Apart

So what sets Elizabeth & Parker Funeral Homes apart from other funeral homes in the area? It's their commitment to compassionate care, attention to detail, and personalized service. Their staff takes the time to get to know each family they serve, understanding their unique needs and preferences. This allows them to create meaningful tributes that truly reflect the personality and spirit of their loved one.

Contacting Elizabeth & Parker Funeral Homes

If you're in need of funeral services or simply have questions about the options available, don't hesitate to contact Elizabeth & Parker Funeral Homes. Their experienced staff is available 24/7 to provide guidance and support. You can reach them by phone at [phone number] or visit their website at [website URL]. They are located at 243 Sprouse Court, Elizabeth, CO 80107.

In conclusion, Elizabeth & Parker Funeral Homes is a trusted and respected funeral home that has been serving the Elizabeth community for many years. With their commitment to compassionate care, attention to detail, and personalized service, they have earned a reputation for excellence in the industry. If you're in need of funeral services or simply want to learn more about your options, consider contacting Elizabeth & Parker Funeral Homes today.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and other biographical information. It may also include details about their life, achievements, and surviving family members.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to share news of a loved one's passing with friends, family, and community. They provide an opportunity to honor and celebrate the person's life, and offer a sense of closure for those who are grieving.

What is the purpose of an obituary?

The primary purpose of an obituary is to notify others of a person's passing and provide information about their funeral or memorial service. It also serves as a tribute to the person's life and legacy.

Who typically writes an obituary?

Obituaries are usually written by family members, close friends, or a funeral home. In some cases, a professional obituary writer may be hired to assist with the writing process.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, hobbies, interests, and surviving family members. It may also include information about their military service, awards, or other notable achievements.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication and the individual's life story. Generally, it should be concise and to the point, ranging from 100 to 500 words.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many publications allow you to include one or more photos with the obituary. This can be a nice way to personalize the tribute and help readers remember the person.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper or online publication?

Contact the publication directly to learn about their submission guidelines and deadlines. Some publications may have online forms or email addresses where you can submit the obituary.

Is there a cost associated with publishing an obituary?

Yes, most publications charge a fee for publishing an obituary. The cost varies depending on the publication, word count, and any additional features such as photos or special layouts.

Can I write my own obituary?

Yes, it's becoming more common for people to write their own obituaries in advance. This can be a therapeutic exercise and ensure that your life story is told in your own words.

What is the difference between an obituary and a eulogy?

An obituary is a written notice announcing a person's death, while a eulogy is a speech or written tribute delivered at a funeral or memorial service. A eulogy is often more personal and emotional than an obituary.

Can I include humor in an obituary?

Absolutely! An obituary can be a celebration of the person's life, so feel free to include humorous anecdotes or personality traits that made them unique.

How do I handle sensitive information in an obituary?

If there are sensitive issues or controversies surrounding the person's death or life, it's best to exercise discretion when writing the obituary. Focus on celebrating their positive qualities and achievements.

Can I include charitable donations or memorials in an obituary?

Yes, many families choose to include information about charitable donations or memorials in lieu of flowers. This can be a meaningful way to honor the person's memory and support a good cause.

How long does it take for an obituary to be published?

The timeframe for publishing an obituary varies depending on the publication and their deadlines. Online publications may publish immediately, while print newspapers may take several days or weeks.

Can I make changes to an obituary after it's been published?

In some cases, minor corrections can be made to an online obituary. However, printed newspapers typically do not allow changes once the obituary has been published.

What if I want to keep the obituary private?

If you prefer not to share the obituary publicly, you can opt for a private posting on certain online platforms or create a private Facebook group for friends and family.

Can I republish an obituary from another source?

You may need permission from the original publisher or author to republish an obituary. Be sure to check copyright laws and give proper credit to the original source.

How do I find old obituaries?

You can search online archives of newspapers or genealogy websites like Ancestry.com or Newspapers.com. Local libraries or historical societies may also have archives of old newspapers and obituaries.

Can I write an obituary for someone who died many years ago?

Absolutely! Writing an obituary for someone who passed away years ago can be a meaningful way to honor their memory and preserve their legacy for future generations.

What if I'm struggling to write an obituary due to grief or emotional distress?

Don't hesitate to ask for help from friends, family members, or a professional writer. You can also take your time and work on the obituary in stages as you process your emotions.

Are there any specific guidelines for writing an obituary for a veteran?