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COLEEN HACKWELL Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for COLEEN HACKWELL
Sister Anne The Elder
December 8, 2011
Our Dear Coleen, We still miss you every day. It's been tough, but somehow we've made it through a whole year of missing you. All the "firsts" are behind us now: your birthday, Thanksgiving, Christmas. Hard to believe that was last year, but still part of this first year of life without Coleen. Spring, Summer, vacations, Mom's 90th birthday, new babies. Life keeps happening and it somehow seems unfair that you are not here to share it with us. We hold you in our hearts on all these special occasions and feel you with us in spirit. November 6th was the worst, and now that too is behind us. I wanted to post about a thousand more photos in this book before I printed it, but we will get a more comprehensive tribute together eventually. So much Life in your 55 years. Rich, yet not fair that you were taken from us so soon. We are grateful for the many memories of you. The image that comes up most often for me now is of you galloping on a warm sunny beach, head thrown back laughing. We are so grateful to have shared in your life and we will love you forever.
Cindy Carroll
December 1, 2010
Your Spirit, Coleen, is so full of Life and Love. You gave of yourself to All Our Relations - 2-legged, 4-legged, Winged, Water, Green, Earth. Thank you and Carry On your Journey with us in your Heart as you will remain in ours. Cindy and Mike Carroll (Salt Lake City, UT)
Jerry Green
November 21, 2010
The perseverance and positive attitude during your battle against cancer has been inspirational. You make me proud to be a part of your family.
Jan Ryan-Finlayson
November 19, 2010
Thank you Coleen for coloring my life with your smiles, humor and breathless enthusiasm. You were a thoughtful and gifted ambassador for all of our animal
friends. It was always a pleasure to accompany you to a presentation. You will be greatly missed by all your friends at the zoo and I will always be grateful that I had the opportunity to know you, sweet friend.
Linda Middleton
November 18, 2010
I will always remember what a great help Coleen was to me as the Education Department Program Coordinator at Utah's Hogle Zoo. She was one of those volunteers that you could count on to do anything! ZooSnooz was great fun with Coleen. She was very self conscience of her snoring, but she hung in there and slept on the floor with us. She was the main reason we purchased a coffee maker for the EdZOOcation Station, she needed her coffee in the morning. Boy, did she ever come out of her shell when she was teaching about pheromones during our adult Valentines “Mating Dances and Wild Romances” Class. What a gal!
She found out about her illness shortly before I moved, as she presented the wonderful scrapbook that the volunteers made for me her beautiful eyes were full of tears. I had been able to hold it together pretty good saying goodbye to everyone up until that point. I looked at her and said “don’t do this to me.” Then we hugged and cried. I was able to see her again a couple of times when I was back in town and at the zoo for a visit, even then she was giving it her all. She was a good friend. I will always remember her sparkling eyes, fun giggle and happy smile.
Mike & Lu Juenger
November 15, 2010
Coie's light will forever shine in the special gifts she has made and shared with love to all who know her. She adorns our homes with reminders that have made our lives more joyful, creating memories of the good times her entire family have shared with Coie, Delbert and Family.
We are honored to have had the opportunity to share in Coie's laughter, her sincere love of life, and her tears at various times. Coie, you will be missed and never forgotten.
....With Lots of Love,
Brooke Belnap
November 14, 2010
I had the great privilege to know Coleen for about 2 1/2 years and I am so sad to see that she has passed on. She had such a great energy about her and her laugh and kindness will be missed. She took me in as part of her family when I dated her son and it ment so much to me to be a part of such a great family. Even though I havent seen her in a few years I thought about her often. She will truly be missed! .....Love Brooke
November 13, 2010
Coleen loved her family and pets, and was blessed with a mother who is an inspiration to all of us. They shared Co with us for many years in the Treasurer's Office and we always knew she was the glue that held our office together and could figure out pretty much everything, and then get it done. She loved the snow, and would always make it into the office regardless of how deep it was. I will miss our breakfast of champions: diet coke, bacon, and on a really good day, cherry turnovers hot out of the oven. Co's enthusiasm for life wll not be forgotten, and she made the most of every minute. We shared many joys and sorrows over the years, and although we couldn't always make everything right, we always had the support of our office family. We will think of Co when we see horses running with the wind, or when we see dogs with heads hanging out a car window with tongues dangling. We will always cherish the gifts Co brought back from her adventures as well as her beautiful hand made creations. Coleen not only showed us how to live, but also how to bravely face lifes most frightening challenges. That perhaps is her greatest gift to us as she fought with grace, courage and dignity. Although Co's laughter has been silenced, her star will always shine on us. Let us honor her by being kinder, more compassionate and more giving. Fly with the angels Co. Chris
November 13, 2010
Coleen and I worked together side by side for many years in the Treasurer's Office. She knew I disliked snakes and spiders, and she loved to torment me with her stories of them. She looked forward to her calls from her sister and would make sure to tell me to answer her phone if she was away so she would not miss the call. She loved snow and Christmas and would joyfully announce to the office when it started to snow. We will do an office Christmas tree this year decorated with all her favorite things. Coleen and her laughter will be greatly missed, but we will carry her memory in our hearts. Steph
Tina Mueller
November 13, 2010
To Coleen's Mom, Delbert, the family, the dogs, and all who love her, I add my sincerest, heartfelt sympathies that her bright star shines now a little farther from us. I thank you for sharing her and her time with her human and animal friends at the Zoo! We love her! I offer my deepest conviction that she is watching over you, painfree and at peace. May you feel so as well.
November 12, 2010
Anne and family, I am very sorry to hear about Coleen. Over the many years of our friendship, I have learned about your family, as you have about mine. So I have a subtle but real feeling of the loss. Love, Tom McMahon
November 12, 2010
Jim and family, so very sorry to hear about your sister, please know I am thinking of you and wish you all cherished memories of Colleen. Jim, please give me an email if you are able, It would be great to hear from you again. once again we are sorry for your loss. All our love Mike and Jeri Brown
[email protected]
Lori & Brooke Demuzio
November 12, 2010
We will cherish the memories of our time spent together in Mesquite!! Watching the beautiful sunrise and talking about our wonderful pets!!
G G's birthday party
November 12, 2010
Mikayla McCoy
November 11, 2010
Yesterday's bud's are this morning's blossoms, we draw with a brush on silk.
Every eye knows a pattern;
every ear hears distant music.
Coleen doing what she did best
Scott Cowley
November 11, 2010
Nancy Sandmire
November 11, 2010
Nichol, I was so sorry to hear about your loss today. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I hope you find peace and comfort through your family and your faith in God. Love, Nancy
Linda Norton
November 11, 2010
Please accept our deepest sympathies. So sorry to hear about Coleen's passing. Love & Prayers to you and your family. Linda
Brenda Milne
November 11, 2010
Nichol, My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time. Love Brenda
Cheryl DeCastro
November 11, 2010
Nichol, I would like to extend my condolences to you and your family. I am so glad that I had the opportunity to meet your step-mom at your shower and wedding! She was a great lady, so much fun and was full of life! Please take care and know that she is in a better place.
Cheryl DeCastro
Park City, UTAH
Nichol Hackwell-Rohrer
November 10, 2010
It was an amazing opportunity and privilege for all of us to spend this short time with Coie.
She shared in our lives both the good and the bad. She provided guidance when we were lost. She provided compassion when our hearts and minds were weak. She shared in humor, reminding all of us to appreciate the flaws we find in life, in ourselves. She gave love when our hearts were broken.
And most of all, right now, we are reminded not to take for granted our loved ones, because we don’t know when our good-bye’s are for the last time.
Love always,
Nic, Teresa, Cody and Jodi
November 10, 2010
Pearl
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Heather Bobb
November 10, 2010
My dear, sweet beautiful friend, you have been a shining beacon of love, laughter and warmth to all who have known you. A piece of my heart will always be with you and I am so blessed to have been counted as one of your friends. I shall miss you more than words can say.
November 10, 2010
Our heartfelt condolences to Colleen's family. Many hugs from Corry Marshall and Tina Dissel (neighbors on Nocturne Drive)
Stephanie George
November 10, 2010
I only met Coleen a short while ago when she was visiting her sister, Anne, in Los Angeles. I had heard all about Coleen, but, when I met her, I was surprised to see so much light emanating from her. She didn't look sick at all (even without much hair). She clearly used every minute she was alive to enjoy life in a way most us do not. I'm sure her soul is soaring with the eagles now, enjoying her new adventure. Fly, Coleen, fly!
Chris Miskimins
November 9, 2010
Coleen was a good friend and such a warm, kind person to be around. I'll always remember fondly the trip we took to the AZAD conference in Omaha in 2003. She'll be deeply missed.
Diane Cole
November 9, 2010
What a positive presence in the family Coleen has been. She was so enthusiastic about the things she loved; so open; so devoted. She will be sorely missed.
November 9, 2010
Here is the direct link for Hogle Zoo donations in Coleen's memory: https://secure4.gatewayticketing.com/HogleZoo/shop/ViewItems.aspx?Merchant=HogleZoo&CategoryGroupExternalID=DONATION&CategoryExternalID=DONATE
November 9, 2010
Kate Parker
November 9, 2010
I will always remember when Coleen jumped and then laughed when Cecil hissed at her during a zoosnooze. I will miss her and that laugh!
Heidi Juenger
November 9, 2010
Coie's light brought laughter and love so openly for others and to so many...I hope someday we can all learn to do the same. Coie, Namaste
Laurie
November 9, 2010
Coleen was the light of every zoo snooz! I looked forward to the time I got to spend with her and how much fun it would be. I could always count on her for a smile and a laugh! Laurie (Zoo Volunteer)
Jayme Alexander
November 9, 2010
Coleen took horseback riding lessons from me before her trip to Ireland, she really loved the horses and I will treasure the memories of riding with her. " God forbid I should go to any heaven where there are no horses" RBCunningham-Graham
One of Coleen's numerous and awesome Moab photos
November 9, 2010
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Coleen and Anne on their 2009 birthdays
November 9, 2010
Delicate Coleen
Sister Kate
November 9, 2010
My baby sister was determined. Determined in her job, determined in her marriage, determined that she could beat cancer. Sometimes I think how my life would be different if I were so determined. I suppose I can “thank” the cancer for the fact that we grew closer over the past three years, but it is small consolation. (Be thankful, Katie, for the three years she was able to do the things she loved.) I tried to make her laugh at least once in our daily conversations, and I was usually successful (I’d like to think it was because of my wit, but truthfully, it was because she laughed readily and heartily). If I had one wish for her too short almost 56-year span it would be that she could have seen the absolute beauty I saw in her instead of constantly judging herself against society’s image of women. Things I’ve been thinking of…how she huffed and puffed her way around the entire trail at Hovenweep before we knew she had about twelve pounds of tumors in her gut; how much she loved Moab and the times we would spot the same tree or rock way up on the rim when we relaxed on the deck; the peaceful smile on her face as she plopped on the chair in my home, forgetting all about her burdens; the perfect, perfect and so evident joy in her soul when she walked back from standing under Delicate Arch for the first and last time (quite a feat with or without lung tumors); her willingness to wade a cold, swollen creek with me this past spring to see promised petroglyphs--our squeals of laughter as we clung to each other when crossing; sharing her belly-laugh smothered by five dogs mauling her on a single couch; watching her breathing in the view from Island in the Sky for what we both knew would be her last few months in the world. Although I was lucky enough to be able to tell my sister before she died the things about her that I loved so much, she has no idea now (because I had no idea) just how big of a whole there is in my life and how absolute is her absence. There will always be three sistie-uglers, Co. I love you!
"Friends are like your second family, only closer."
November 9, 2010
Ann Pedroza
November 9, 2010
I worked at the Treasurer's office with Coleen for 20 years and she was the most dedicated worker the state had, they lost the best when she retired! She could do every desk in here, and if you could not balance, Co could find it! She was never out sick and was always full of laughter! We always exchanged stories about our dogs, and it is because of her I have the two dogs I have! The first two pictures on my computer today were ones Co found, she will continue to touch everyone's life in here and we will always remember her. Fly with the eagles Co! Peace to your Mom and family.
November 9, 2010
Coleen was a very special woman. My heart goes out to you all. I know how much she was loved and that she will be deeply missed.
Jean Carson, Moab, Utah
Emalee Gonsalves
November 9, 2010
I enjoyed working with Coleen at the Treasurer's office. She always had a smile and was very pleasant to work with. I will miss her!
Scott Cowley
November 9, 2010
Coleen, you made me what I am today. I couldnt of been Mr. Sparkels without you. You were are great mentor and friend you will be missed dearly.
My thoughts and prayers are with everyone in the Hackwell family.
Sharon Peake
November 9, 2010
Anne,
Sisters are unique, although I was never fortunate enough to have any, you are so lucky to have them. I know you will miss her laugh, her sense of humor, and her ability to be positive in spite of the issues she faced. Her love will be with you forever in your heart, and it is through these memories that you will be able to face the future.
Take care,
Sharon
Luaine Furgason
November 9, 2010
Coleen was so kind to me when I began learning how to handle our investments with the Treasurer's Office. Please accept my kind thoughts and feelings at your loss.
Lisa, Leo & family Martinez
November 9, 2010
Teresa, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Our prayers and thoughts are with you at this time of sorrow.
Janet Spence
November 9, 2010
Oh how I enjoyed our last visit in Mesquite, Nevada. Your bubbly personality will be in my memmories forever. I will miss you dear sister.
Makayla Barrandey
November 9, 2010
Coleen, you are so deeply missed. Your laughter, your absolute positive outlook on any challange has been an inspiration to so many people. Whenever I had the chance to work with you as a new volunteer, I was so excited because I knew you would make me laugh along side you. I especially loved sharing our vinegaroon stories, how we hated those little clasping legs! I'm so blessed to have you a part of my life, my memories and the wonderful lesson of never ending joy you carried with you, will be carried with me for the rest of my life. I will miss you deeply!
Analeen
November 9, 2010
I miss you, my baby sister, and your smiling vibrant eyes. Our lives will never be the same without you.
Wright
November 9, 2010
Our hearts are with you Delbert and Cody. We love you.
Jessica Penfold
November 9, 2010
You will be missed! Your mentorship was much appreciated and will always be treasured!
Angela Gunderson
November 9, 2010
Sweet coleen, you will be missed! we are so lucky to have you as a co-worker and dear friend.
Marchion Mackay
November 9, 2010
I am so sorry to hear of Coleen's passing. I worked with her for many years before I retired from the state in 2004, and I so enjoyed our conversations, she will be greatly missed.
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