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Colorado State University

Pam Gardner Obituary

Words cannot express the grief and sadness of those who knew and loved Pam Gardner. Pam had a unique presence. She possessed the ability to draw together human hearts, give them courage and purpose and fuel them with energy to succeed. Pam's petite stature held the spirit of a giant...it will never be forgotten and will be sorely missed. Pamela Gardner was Vice President of In-flight for Frontier Airlines in Denver, Colorado. Integrity, responsibility and honesty guided her every move, winning her respect and admiration from those who met her and worked with her. Pam loved and adored her husband, Brian Gardner. She loved her sons Matt and Troy with all her being as they brought her great joy. Pam's friends and family were her solace. Mrs. Pamela J. Gardner unexpectedly passed away on December 29, 2005 in Houston where she lived. She is survived by her loving husband Brian W. Gardner, sons Matthew Benelli and Troy Gardner, siblings Skip Coffey, Su Coffey and Cathy Brandon, along with seven nieces and nephews, Ryan, Lexis, Elsa, Jaxon, Regan, Tracy and Derek. Pam was born in Palo Alto, California to C. Donald Coffey, a Captain with United Airlines, and Billie Coffey-Greene an RN and Director of In-flight for Frontier Airlines. She was raised in Colorado where she learned the accordion, sign language, western equestrian riding and pom dancing. Pam graduated from CSU in Fort Collins, Colorado with a BS in Spanish. She began her life's work in the airline industry with Pan American in NYC; she then moved on to Rocky Mountain Airways, Continental Express and had 11 years with Frontier Airlines. Pam was a wonderful, dear friend who loved tennis, sailing, biking and fitness. Her dog Whitney protected her and provided companionship for 12 years. The Ya Ya Sisters cared for Pam for many years with unfaltering love and support. Her brother became her greatest ally and "right-hand man". She leaves a huge hole in the lives of her entire family. A memorial service to celebrate the life of Pamela J. Gardner will be held Saturday at 1:00 pm at Trinity United Methodist Church at 18th and Broadway in downtown Denver. A memorial scholarship fund is being established by the family for the children of Frontier employees. Contributions should be sent to: The "For Pam" Memorial Scholarship Fund, c/o Cindy Yost, Frontier Airlines, 7001 Tower Road, Denver 80249.

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Published by Denver Post on Jan. 4, 2006.

Memories and Condolences
for Pam Gardner

31 Entries

Linda Q

December 22, 2023

Pam! You were one of the best! God Bless! Kiss Kiss Deerfield

Cathy Packer

February 26, 2006

Brian and Matt, and family, we are deeply saddened and offer our condolences to you all. We have been enjoying the Flight Attendant school on TV and were shocked to see today's program dedicated to Pam. We have been talking about Pam to everyone we know, encouraging them to watch the program. This was such an accomplishment for Pam, we are so proud of her. We will always remember her as a true friend and mom, there are so many memories, we will always treasure the times with Pam, Brian and Matt. We miss you, our love is with you always. Cathy, Christian, Charlie and Curt

Carolyn HunterBoggs

February 22, 2006

I have known Pam almost 20years, and just found out, I am so sorry for your loss. I was the Chief FA for Sierra Pacific Airlines and our paths always crossed working together. She was always kind and helpful to me. My thoughts are with your wonderful family, Carolyn Boggs

Joanne Meier

January 22, 2006

I am very fortunate to have Pam as a treasured friend. She was a beautiful spirit and I will miss her deeply. We didn't see each other often, but could pick up the phone and reconnect immediately. My deepset sympathies to Brian, Matt, Troy and her family. Joanne

Tony Arini

January 21, 2006

I first met Pam when working for Rocky Mountain Airways in Denver. Fortunately for me, I had the honor of meeting, talking, and flying with Pam on occassion. Unfortunately for me, I never got to really know Pam. However one distinct quality I observed was that she always made you feel very special, and was so easy to talk to. She made you feel like you were an old friend. Indeed, Rocky Mountain/Continental Express as well as Frontier Airlines have lost a close member of their family. Brian, my heartfelt condolences to you and your family. Pam, as for you, I hope you look down from heaven as see how much you were loved and appreciated.

Lauren

January 20, 2006

Pam was my trainer at Rocky Mountain Airways. No words can describe her warmth, enthusiasm, knowledge and caring attitude. She was an amazing presence and touched my life, and everyone she met with, in such a positive way.

Donna Harrell

January 14, 2006

Pam Benelli Gardner was my FA trainer and supervisor at CO Express. She excelled in both capacities. She always gave us older newbies, to the airline industry, a lot of support and guidance. I had not seen Pam in a long time and was greatly saddened to see her memorial at the end of "Flight Attendant School". She was a special lady who was loved by so many. She may have been petite in stature but she had a very large presence. I send my deepest condolences to her family and friends. You will all be in my thoughts and prayers as you begin the process of healing.

Crystal Brown

January 14, 2006

I met Pam in 1987 and knew immediately that I had a friend for life! She was a charming, funny, witty and playful person that made me giggle constantly. Pam would be your strongest supporter thru tough times and always kept her glow! She could charm you with her engaging personality while demolishing you at the pool table! She was a fabulous mother and an amazing wife who was never selfish of her time or talents. I will miss her so very much!

Lisa Gillespie

January 13, 2006

Like so many others, I was drawn to Pam on the Flight Attendant School program. The first thing I noticed about her was her compassion. Even though she had a tough job to do at times, she did it with dignity that so few people in authority have. And, you could tell that it wasn't done just for the cameras. It was her.

As a leader in my own job, the most fitting tribute I can give her is to emulate her ways and carry on her legacy, learning from the fine example she has set. She is a lady with class.

May the Gardner family find peace in this difficult time, and may you all find solace in your prayers, and from the prayers of all of us.

May God bless you all and give you strength as you go through this difficult time. Please find comfort in the love of your friends and family that will hold you and keep you now and in the future.

No words can ever soothe a broken heart only love will make the transition a little easier

Cheryl Lassiter

January 13, 2006

Although I did not know Pam personally I feel for her family and friends. I am a paramedic in Austin Texas and was watching the Fronteer"show late last night.I read the memorandum for Pam and felt compelled to hold out a hand in warmth and compassion for all who knew this extrodinary Lady! I wrote a poem many years ago that I pray will give you comfort in your time of most great need....

gt; She is

She whispers soft lullabies in her newborn baby’s ears to soothe its cries as it drifts off into a peaceful innocent sleep.
She answers life’s questions one by one to a curious little child making sure the explanations are not too intellectually deep.
She is the seamstress who mends the broken heart time and time again offering a hug to cure the pain.
She is the audience who gives a standing ovation to the musician who entertains her as they recite each little refrain.
She is the motivator who tirelessly believes in her child as she sends them off into the world holding back the tears as she cuts the apron strings.
She is the definition of love and Godliness shown through her works as she takes others under her wings to shelter them from life’s painful stings.
She is the keeper of the memory box sharing her past with all that care to join her as she proudly shows them the best years of her life.
She is the example for all that will succeed her peacefully watching from a distance when the time is right.
Cry no tears she whispers soft and low it’s time for me to go, you too in time will see
I will never be too far away I will be in your hearts and in your memories….

;

>Written By Sherry (Cheryl) Lassiter
Paramedic/FF Grants Writer
March 17, 2005

Marian Lowes

January 12, 2006

I never had the pleasure of personally meeting Pam, but I was immediately drawn to her charismatic and caring ways from the Flight Attendant show on the Travel Channel. She has the type of star quality that beams from within her dynamo spirit. I was deeply saddended to see she passed away. But her legacy will no doubt live on. She certainly has motivated me to be a kinder more caring person. My deepest sympathy to her family.

Jennifer Jeffery

January 12, 2006

I flew for Pam years ago out of Denver for Co Express. Her vibrant personality will never be forgotten. I send my thoughts and prayers to her family and friends dearest to her. I know that she will never be forgotten.

Christina Lynch-Haladyna

January 12, 2006

My deepest condolences to the Gardner family.I worked with Pam for many years at Continental Express and her Professionalism, Integrity and Spirit of fun I will always remember.She was a inspiration too many and touched so many lives.She will be missed but her leagacy will continue in all of us who remember.

Paul Burtch

January 10, 2006

Pam was one of a kind, a truely wonderful person. It seemed she was always lifting up someone else's spirit, making them smile. She will be missed!

Bob Ward

January 9, 2006

To Brian and the rest of the Gardner family. My thoughts and prayers have been with you. Like everyone, I'm sure, was shocked and deeply saddened to hear of Pam's passing. Pam hired me and another young "coffee" pourer (Pete Guy as I recall.) as the first male flight attendants for Rocky/Continental Express. It was probably a very "strange" transition for most of the cockpit crews, but the fact that Pam hired us made it all okay. If anyone had a problem they would have to face Pam! Brian was one of the most laid-back and a joy to fly with. I will never forget those days as those were my initial start in the airline industry. There are many friendships and memories that remain today. Thanks to Pam. God Bless you guys and again my prayers go out to you.

Tracy Dyke/Thomas

January 9, 2006

Dear Pam,

How do you begin to recall so many great memories in the past when there should be so many more to come?

Remember the time Janie and I 'babysat' Matthew and he took us out driving?...come to think of it you didn't appreciate that one as much as we did at the time...but typical of you, laughed and joked about it later with us.

You and Mom both had to struggle with ailing Mothers. You were there for Mom to ease her pain and comfort her when she was grieving. Always a sympathetic ear to listen and shoulder to lean on.

We both have the same close relationship with our families that I'm so grateful for. I will never take that for granted.

From the wild Holiday parties to the private chats, you could always make people comfortable and welcome at any occasion.

We'll painfully miss you Pam but we'll find comfort through the bonds of friendship and love we share because of you.

Love Always,

Tracy Dyke

January 7, 2006

Oh what a terrible lost to the whole Gardner Family and the Frontier Airlines Family. No one in the company can come close to what Pam had to offer there with her personality, attitude, goals to make each and every class that graduated to become a flight attendant successfull. Pam you will be missed dearly. Rest in Peace

January 7, 2006

My deepest condolences to the Gardner family for this most devastating loss. God Bless.

Phil Gustte

January 7, 2006

I am so fortunate to have known Pam! I have never met anyone who could spread happiness and a positive outlook like her. I am deeply saddened by this loss and my prayers are with Brian and extended family. God's speed Pam!

Kari (Contos) Edge

January 6, 2006

I am so sad to hear of this loss. When I was hired with "Rocky" I lived with Pam's mom and got the opportunity to meet most of her family. My heart and prayers go out to all of you! Kari

Suzie Harrison-Brungard

January 5, 2006

It seems like such a short time ago that Pam and I were sneaking the Big Red Truck from the AW parking lot thinking sister Suzi would never know. So many fond memories of Pam over the years will always be a treasured part of my life. I will miss seeing her at the airport each time I flew in. I know she will remain in each of our hearts forever as everyone who knew Pam, loved Pam. She is responsible for the many many smiles as we remember an honor such a remarkable, one of kind, very special friend.

Desiree' McRae

January 5, 2006

Pam's larger than life, ever ready presence will forever be embedded in the minds, hearts and souls of everyone she touched. She has my undying respect and admiration as both friend and mentor. I celebrate her life lived to fullest and awe inspiring legacy while extending my heartfelt sorrow and prayers to her family and friends.

January 4, 2006

"Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm"--- I think of Pam when I see this, and I know this is why Frontier was such a great company.

DonLee Lane

January 4, 2006

I met Pam at my brothers home. She was such a nice friendly person who cared about people. I know she will be truly missed and my prayers are for her family and friends.

Nancy Petrella[ Foster ]

January 4, 2006

Pam was a little sister to one of my best friends all through high school, tagging along with her sister Suzi and I, always fun, spirted and kind.My mind is flooded with many, many memories of great times at the Coffey ranch!What a great family !My dearest condolences.

Nicole Covney

January 4, 2006

My heartfelt condolences to Pam's family. This beautiful, energetic woman touched so many lives!

Daniel Bullick

January 4, 2006

As part of Frontier Airlines start-up management team back in 1994, I hired Pam Benelli Gardner away from Continental Express to manage Frontiers Flight Attendant group. She was an awesome manager and one of the best managers at Frontier Airlines. I adored Pam and will so very much her bubbly personality and management leadership at Frontier. My prayers and love go out to Pam's family. She will be missed greatly.

Chris and Don Lane

January 4, 2006

Beautiful lady. One of her goals was "to make Frontier Air Lines the best in flight Air Line in the United States." Enjoyed her a number of times in Scottsdale and Denver. She will be missed.

Danielle Bullick

January 4, 2006

I was so shocked and saddened to hear of Pam's sudden passing. My Dad had to be her biggest fan, he absolutely adored her from day one! I remember meeting Pam at the Frontier offices one day last summer and thinking to myself " what a sweethheart, she has such presence, charisma and the most engaging personality I've ever seen". I wanted to be just like her!

My thoughts and prayers go out to Pam's family, friends and co-workers. This is such a huge loss, I don't know what else to say. Pam, you will be missed by so many, and the impressions you left on those who met you will never be forgotten. You are an angel....

Danielle

Linda Waller-Malin

January 4, 2006

Pam will live on in the hearts of so many. I will be eternally grateful for the day Pam, Doris Lane and I spent in Ixtapa together. She was a petite "GIANT" in our world. May we all take the legacy of her grace, her enthusiasm, her integrity, her wisdom, and her beauty with us wherever we go.

Sammy Luci

January 3, 2006

I will always remember the way Pam would greet you with a warm smile. She was one of the most gracious and lovely people you would ever want to meet. I am glad I had a chance to have known her. I know that I am thankful to have met and work with her at two airlines. In this world we are defined not by how far you go but rather how your life affected someone else's. She has far exceeded this old saying. I cannot make the service, but her memory and kindness will forever be a part of my life because of her. Thank you, Pam! I will always love and miss you so very much. God Bless you!!!

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