Colleen Ruth (Reynolds) Gardner

Colleen Ruth (Reynolds) Gardner, 83 passed away October 26, 2026 at Cheyenne County Hospital in St Francis, KS. Colleen was born November 16th, 1942 along with her twin sister Corrine who died in infancy, in Minden NE to Franklin and Ruth Reynolds of Bloomington, NE. 

She met Chet Gardner in first grade, but after a playground kiss, Colleen was not impressed, but he ultimately won her over with his charismatic charm and handsome navy uniform. Colleen graduated from Bloomington High School in 1960 and Kearney State College in 1963. She began teaching that fall in St. Francis, KS. Chet and Colleen were married February 12, 1964. To this union were born four boys, Troy, Todd, Justin and Jason. 

She taught English for many years and retired from teaching in 2006. One of the great joys in her life was singing with the Windsong Chorus Sweet Adelines International in Sterling, CO and KC Connection quartet. She also loved traveling around the country in an RV with Chet where they made many good friends. 

She adored her eleven grandkids including Julianna, daughter of Troy Gardner; Matthew, Abby, Jacob and spouse Alexa, Levi, Michael, Isaac, and Josiah children of Todd and Rhonda Gardner; Gus son of Justin and Danielle Gardner; Kolby and Kylie, children of Jason and Tanya Gardner. 

She was a member of St Francis United Methodist Church, various community organizations, and any other “punny” things she could think of. 

She is preceded in death by her parents Franklin and Ruth Reynolds, sister Corrine, and Chet’s parents Glen and Darolene Gardner. Colleen will be dearly missed by her husband, children, grandchildren and countless friends. 

Memorials can be made to the Windsong Chorus of Sterling, CO.

Graveside service and inurnment will be held Saturday, November 7, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. at the Maple Grove Cemetery, Bloomington, NE with Jerrell Gerdes officiating.

Condolences may be left online at www.hutchinsfh.com.