Hannah "Gwen" Richardson

July 21, 1948 - April 10, 2014

Hannah "Gwen" Solmer Richardson of Rocky Ford passed away on April 10, 2014 at St. Mary Corwin Hospital in Pueblo, Colorado.     Gwen was born July 21, 1948 to Samuel and Bernice Solmer in Danbury, Conn.  She attended school there, graduating from Danbury High School in 1966.  Gwen attended college near Danbury, receiving her certificate in teaching and taught school in the area for a couple of years before coming to Colorado.  She attended University of Northern Colorado in Greeley, receiving her Master's Degree in Education.  Gwen taught science in several schools including Canon City.       Besides her teaching career, Gwen had a dog breeding business, breeding and showing Terriers all over the country.  She served as "a dog handler" for several people.  Gwen also made and sold jewelry.       Upon receiving her disability, Gwen, looking for a slower pace of life and lower cost of living area moved to Rocky Ford in December of 2000.   She married Stephen (Mr. Fix It) Richardson May 8, 2003 in La Junta Colorado.     Gwen was very active in the Community Presbyterian Church.  She loved singing in the choir and the Easter and Christmas Cantatas.  She was a member of Presbyterian Women's Association and helped with the Annual Tasting Tea.       Gwen, always interested in helping other people, took charge of the Rocky Ford Salvation Army Food Bank for a couple of years and has continued volunteering at the Food Bank Site.  Gwen was usually one of the first ones to sign up to ring the Salvation Army Bell at Christmas.  She was a member of Rocky Ford Garden Club, DTM in Toastmasters, Secretary of the Museum Board, Tour Guide for Trails and Rails (train from La Junta to Albuquerque) and President of Rocky Ford Church Women.  Gwen's love of science and history gave her the opportunity to research and write articles about many different subjects.  One of her favorite and latest projects was her article on St. Francis of Assai, which was published in the Rocky Ford Daily Gazette.       Gwen is survived by her husband, Stephen of the home, Sister Emily (Frank) McGowen of Danbury, Conn. two nephews and many friends.

A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, April 17, 2014 at 10:30 AM in the Community Presbyterian Church in Rocky Ford with Rev. Steve Culver officiating. There will be no viewing as cremation has been effected. Inurnment will be at a later time. Memorials may be made to the Community Presbyterian Church, Cancer Society, or Humane Society.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Ford-Ustick Funeral Home. Condolences may be sent to www.fordustick.com .