Deanna's obituary
Obituary Deanna Jean “DJ” Bigler
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our wife, mother, grandmother and friend Deanna Jean (DJ) Bigler, 83, of Estes Park, on Nov. 27.
Born on Jan. 21, 1941, in Albion Michigan, Deanna was the daughter of Francis Zaike and Dean Herriff. She graduated from Wheatridge (CO) High School and earned her Certificate in Dental Hygiene.
Deanna married her sweetheart, Craig Bigler, Lakewood, CO. They first met in 1950, in fifth grade and love blossomed for the next 14 years. Craig and Deanna were married in 1964, and have spent the last 60 years together in marriage. Together, they raised two children, Kevin and Dawn, and enjoyed a life full of adventure and travel.
In 1988 and 1989, she was proud to witness the US Navy Pass and Review of her children, AD3 Kevin Bigler and AM1 (AW) Dawn Bigler (RET), an event she held close to her heart.
As a couple, Craig and Deanna owned and ran Cliffside Cottages in Estes Park. Visitors who stayed there became friends, returning over and over thanks to the warm experiences they had with Deanna and Craig.
A woman of many interests, Deanna had a deep fondness for the Denver Broncos, and a steadfast dedication to animals. Her favorite cause was the Wild Animal Sanctuary in Keensburg, CO. Deanna’s favorite color was yellow, a symbol of joyfulness, happiness, and energy. A lover of nature, Deanna found joy in the wild birds that visited her feeders daily, especially the hummingbirds.
She was a contributing member of the Estes Park Car Club for many years. Deanna was a real spark in running events and finding creative ways to include new people as part of her community.
Family was her passion. Deanna was a master quilter. She showed her love to family members far and wide by the quilts she created for them. Her greatest joy was spending time with her beloved grandchild Abigail. Every year she would make extended visits to Oregon to be with Abby as their relationship grew.
Deanna is survived by her loving husband, Craig, her son, Kevin Bigler of Oregon, her daughter, Dawn Bigler of Loveland, CO., and her granddaughter, Abigail Bigler, also of Oregon. Her parents, Francis Zaike and Dean Herriff, predeceased her.
Deanna will be fondly remembered for her zest for life, her passions, and the love she had for her family and community. She leaves a rich tapestry of memories and will be deeply missed.