Katherine "Kay" F. Gerlits

Katherine "Kay" F. Gerlits, age 95, of Denver, Colorado, passed away peacefully on October 25, 2024, at Brookdale Assisted Living Vista Grande. Kay was born on February 26, 1929, in Denver, Colorado, to Clement and Laura Leonard.

Kay’s early working years began with a position at a phone company in Littleton, Colorado, before embarking on a long and fulfilling career with Safeway, where she worked for over 30 years until her retirement in 1991. Outside of work, Kay was passionate about her Denver Broncos. She was an active member of the Denver Broncos Quarterback Club and served on its board of directors, a testament to her dedication and love for her team.

Kay’s family and faith were central to her life. She married her former husband, Harry Nazarenus, with whom she shared a life until his passing in 1968. In 1974, she married her second husband, Frank Gerlits, with whom she shared many happy years.

Kay was preceded in death by her parents, Clement and Laura Leonard, her former husband Harry Nazarenus, as well as four sisters and one brother. She is survived by her loving husband, Frank Gerlits; son Larry Nazarenus (Centennial, CO); daughter Debbie Schenkelberg and son-in-law Jeff Schenkelberg (Colorado Springs, CO); grandchildren Larry II and Tommie Nazarenus (Macon, GA), Chad Heinley (Colorado Springs, CO), and Jennifer and Jordan Boston (North Platte, NE); great-granddaughter Mayson Nazarenus; and numerous grand fur puppies who brought her joy throughout her life.

A woman of deep Catholic faith, Kay will be remembered for her warmth, her kindness, and her unwavering devotion to her family.

A private interment will take place at Fort Logan National Cemetery on November 18, 2024. A celebration of Kay’s life will be held in early 2025. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Bloom Hospice of Colorado Springs, Colorado, in Kay’s memory https://bloomhospice.com/foundation/.