Georgene Lee Brnak

Georgene Lee Brnak, 89, of Keenesburg, CO, passed away on July 25, 2025. She was born on December 10, 1935, to Russell and Oliva Gurtler in Denver, CO. With her parents and four siblings, Georgene moved to the farm in Hudson, CO, in the fifth grade. She lived the rest of her life in Hudson and then Keenesburg spanning the next 80 years.

Georgene was known for her vibrant spirit and her generous nature. A devoted wife, mother, daughter, sister, and friend, she brought laughter, love, lessons, and joy into the lives of those around her.

Georgene attended Keenesburg Elementary and High School where she was liked by all classmates, loved cheerleading, and earned the nickname “Gurt”. After graduation she worked for the telephone company first in Keenesburg and then in Fort Lupton before she married.

Georgene married James Brnak whom she met when she was nine years old. They were classmates, then dated, got engaged, and then married on April 7, 1956, in Pensacola, FL. James was a naval aviation cadet, and Georgene continued her work with the telephone company.

She was a devoted and supportive wife to James, standing beside him through every season of life with love, patience, and partnership. Together they built a life grounded in faith and filled with love, laughter, and purpose. As a mother, Georgene was our foundation and our guide. She nurtured her children with wisdom, always encouraging them to reach higher, believe in themselves, and live with integrity. She challenged them to be their best and loved them unconditionally through it all.

Georgene also deeply loved her community. She gave her time, her gifts, and her heart to those around her, offering support, kindness, and connection wherever she could. Her door was always open and her heart even more so.

Creative and full of life, she had an eye for beauty and a passion for gardening. Her home and flowers reflected the joy she carried in her heart. She was a fabulous cook and a gracious hostess who delighted in entertaining friends and family. Her meals brought people together and her laughter filled every room.

Georgene lived a life of purpose, generosity, and love. Her hands created beauty. Her heart gave freely. Her faith never wavered.

Georgene is survived by her husband of 69 years, James Brnak; daughter, Elizabeth (Cody) Diekroeger; son, Joe (Tammy) Brnak; son, Jeffrey (Kathy) Brnak; grandchildren, Adam (Erin) Brnak, Gina Yanowich, Jared (Emma) Brnak, Ashley Brnak, Anna (Blake) Sherman; eight great-grandchildren; sister, Drucilla Housand (age 104).

She was preceded in death by daughter, Gina Lee Brnak; father, Russell Gurtler; mother, Oliva Gurtler; brother Russell Gurtler Jr. (Butch); sister, Clara Smith; sister, Phyllis Morman; grandson Joshua Brnak.

To celebrate Georgene’s life, Monday, August 4, 2025. A Recitation of the Rosary will be held at 9:00 am, with Visitation at 9:30 am, and Mass at 10:00 am at Sacred Heart Church in Roggen, CO. Immediately following will be a burial service at Elmwood Cemetery in Brighton, CO. The family invites all to a reception dinner at the American Legion Hall in Keenesburg, CO, following the burial at 1:30 pm.

In lieu of flowers, Memorial Contributions may be made to Holy Family Catholic Church in Keenesburg.