Elsie Tibbals

Long time Boulder resident died peacefully at HospiceCare of Boulder/Broomfield County after a courageous battle with Pancreatic Cancer. Born January 20, 1930, the youngest daughter of Otto and Hyacinth Kniesler, in Torrington, CT. Married to Robert L. Tibbals (deceased), also of Torrington, for 45 years. Elsie was a strong advocate for early childhood education as a preschool teacher, and later as founder, owner, operator and teacher of Gunbarrel Preschool in Boulder. Even after selling the Preschool, she continued her work as a teacher, finally retiring in 2010. She had a positive impact on many children and their families, including multiple generations in the Boulder Valley area. Her passion for Early American history and antiques lead her to co-found the local Flatirons chapter of The Questers International Organization, where she served as both President and Co-President from 1999-2006. She was also a true CU Buffaloes sports fan-Elsie and Robert were season football ticket holders for 45 years. She is survived by her children: Robert L. Tibbals, Jr. (Kathryn) of Centennial, CO, Clinton B. Tibbals of Frederick, CO, Timothy K. Tibbals of Loveland, CO, and Marilyn A. Krantz (Mark) of Parker, CO. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Lauren E. Tibbals, Robert L. Tibbals III, Geoffrey J. Tibbals, Adam R. Krantz, Thomas J. Tibbals and Samantha C. Tibbals. A Memorial Service and celebration of her life will be held at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, April 4, 2012, at St. Ambrose Episcopal Church, located at 7520 South Boulder Road, Boulder, CO. In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests donations be made in Elsie’s name to HospiceCare of Boulder/Broomfield County.