Karen “Kay” Joyce Lenhart, 70, of Greeley Colorado, died Monday July 2, 2012 at her home.

Kay was born September 28, 1941 in Denver Colorado to Harry Edward Anderson, and Janet Bell. Kay was raised in the mountains of Colorado, in the towns of Climax, Manitou, Glenwood and Colorado Springs. Kay graduated from East High in Denver, in 1959. In 1961 she married Robert, “Bob” Gene Lenhart. She graduated from the University of Northern Colorado with her degree in Education and then later from Regis University with her Master’s degree.

Kay had a passion for life and learning! Her laugh was unforgettable and her sense of humor tremendous! She loved animals, giving ‘forever homes’ to many throughout her life. Birds, plants, music and books filled her soul. She lived and breathed anything to do with history. Kay prided herself in being a hard worker and kept her home and yard in beautiful condition until the day she died. With her husband, Kay refurbished over 50 classic automobiles during her marriage.

Kay taught for 30 years at Brentwood Middle School in Greeley, finding great pride in her role as a teacher. She was nominated by several students for Who’s Who Among American Teachers. She loved teaching and after retiring in 2005, she opened a Preschool with her daughter Deb. The two worked side by side for the past four years surrounded by the smiles of preschoolers!

Kay’s devotion to family and friends was bottomless; No sacrifice was too great for those she adored. Her grandson, Taylor, 16, was her greatest prize and the two have an inseparable bond.

Survivors include, her grandson Taylor Paul Hayden, Daughter Deb Hayden, Son-in-law Tony Hayden, all of Cheyenne; three granddaughters of Oklahoma: Katie, Maddie and Cassie Lenhart; her brother Stan Anderson of Arvada, sister Beverly Moses of Lakewood, brother Warren Anderson of Illinois, and several beloved nieces and nephews. Additionally, several lifelong friends will miss her tremendously. Kay was preceded in death by her son Doug Lenhart, her ex-husband Bob Lenhart, her father, mother, and two brothers, Kenny and Harry.

A memorial service to celebrate Kay’s life and spirit will be held at 10:00am on Saturday, July 14, 2012 at the Moser Funeral Service Chapel, 3501 S. 11th Ave, Evans, Colorado. Donations in Kay’s name may be made to the Weld County Humane Society.