Kathleen Marie Sanchez (Rumpf), 58, of Walden, Colorado, passed away peacefully at her home on April 7, 2025.

Kathleen was born on March 16, 1967, in Cheyenne, Wyoming, to Betty (Odorizzi) and Ernest Rumpf Jr.

Kathleen was a naturally social and caring person from a young age. Growing up as the only girl among four brothers, she was right in the mix—laughing, teasing, and holding her own with a big heart and quick wit. Her bond with her father was especially close. Some of her happiest childhood memories were carefree summers in Texas, where she played ping pong, ran through the yard, and visited her beloved aunt and uncle. One of her most cherished experiences was flying in a small plane with her dad shortly before his passing, a moment she held close to her heart for the rest of her life.

She graduated from Cheyenne East High School in 1985, where she enjoyed playing volleyball, running track, and spending time with friends. After high school, Kathleen attended the University of Wyoming to study education, where she met Toby Sanchez. The two later moved to Las Vegas, Nevada, where Kathleen briefly attended flight attendant school. Though she was excited about flying the sunny skies, she ultimately decided it wasn’t the right path; thanks in part to a swimming requirement she wasn’t too thrilled about.

In 1991, Kathleen and Toby were married in a small ceremony in Las Vegas and soon began building their life together. They returned to Cheyenne, Wyoming and welcomed their first child, Zane, in 1993. In 1995, they relocated to Walden, Colorado. In Walden, Kathleen embraced her role as a stay-at-home mom. She always had a fresh meal and a spotless home. The same year, they welcomed their second child, Aspin. Their family continued to grow with the arrival of Peyton in 2001 and Paige in 2004. Kathleen cherished motherhood above all else and poured her heart into raising her children with unconditional love, nurturing and compassion.

Once Paige started school, Kathleen returned to the workforce. She worked as a paralegal for Kyle Fliniau, where camaraderie and humor were always on the docket. She later worked as a librarian before finding her true calling at North Park School District. Over the years, she served in many roles: paraprofessional, gatekeeper for sporting events, class sponsor, and eventually office administrator. But perhaps her most satisfying position was as “Mama Kath,” a loving presence and unofficial mom to countless students and staff. She offered a warm embrace, listening ear, and heartfelt advice to anyone who needed it.

Kathleen’s greatest pride and joy were her children. She never missed a school, sports, or community event and was always the biggest cheerleader. As they grew, she continued to share their accomplishments with immense pride. She made Walden her true home, finding peace in the snow-capped mountains and joy in baking her mother’s recipes for family and visitors alike. Kathleen had a gift for making everyone feel welcome. Her door was always open where guests were greeted with a warm hug and cold cup of iced coffee.

Some of her favorite memories include cross-country RV trips, annual lake camping trips, and crafting projects with loved ones. In April 2024, Kathleen returned to the sunny skies to attend her oldest nephew’s wedding in Minnesota. This adventure sparked her excitement for travel and inspired her to start checking items off her bucket list. While her sudden passing left many adventures still unwritten, she most recently celebrated an unforgettable 58th birthday at an Avalanche game, surrounded by the energy and fun she loved. Kathleen was happiest when her people were together, always finding joy in the little things and making every gathering feel like a celebration.

Kathleen is survived by Toby, Zane, Aspin, Peyton, Paige and her favorite child (dog) Lilly. She is also survived by her four brothers: John (Kathy), Tim (Valerie), Todd (David), and Troy; along with many nieces, nephews, friends, coworkers, and the countless young people she loved as her own.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Betty and Ernie, her angel babies, aunts, uncles, grandparents, and her dear friend and boss, Kyle.

A celebration of Kathleen’s life will be held at North Park High School on April 19th at 1:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Kathleen Sanchez Memorial Fund on this site.

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