Trudy E Yaklich

After two weeks in Intensive Care in Grand Junction, CO, our beloved sister, Trudy Yaklich, joined the other beautiful stars in the sky on August 12, 2024. She was a beautiful 79-year-old.

Trudy Ellen Yaklich was born to Fred and Leola Yaklich in August 1944 while Fred served in the Navy in California during World War II. Shortly after her brother Fritz was born, the family returned to Crested Butte, CO. 

Trudy grew up in Crested Butte during the town's booms and busts. In her childhood, the town was a bustling mining town; when she graduated from high school, the population was only about 250 people, and her graduating class had five students. 

Trudy had an inquiring mind and loved history. In the 1970s, she bravely traveled solo throughout India, Nepal, and Afghanistan. Trudy received her degree in Education from Western State College and two Master's degrees, a testament to her intellectual curiosity and dedication. Trudy loved knowledge and had a teaching career that spanned 23 years; she guided many students with her gifts of kindness and love. 

Despite her travels to distant lands, Trudy's heart always remained in Crested Butte. Upon retiring, she returned to her beloved Hometown and the mountains that she cherished, a testament to her deep connection to her roots. There, she continued to expand her knowledge, becoming certified in Reiki and Ortho-bionomy and furthering her desire to assist others. After a few years, she moved to the welcoming community of Gunnison out of necessity. She formed many wonderful and caring friendships that supported her until the end.

Trudy's life purpose was to love and care for others, whether people or animals. Her compassion and kindness were evident in the way she cared for the birds, geese, and deer she fed every day. In return, she was beloved by many. We will all miss her, including the animals she so dearly loved. 

Trudy is survived by her sisters Mari and Cindi, her former sister-in-law Margaret, her nephews Zeb, Ian, and Collin, many cousins, and her beloved great nieces and nephews. She leaves behind many friends and her Bubby dog, whom she loved so dearly. Wonderful Frank Magri gave Bubby a forever home. Trudy's parents, Fred and Leola, her brother Fritz, and nephew Zach preceded her in death. 

A Celebration of her life will be held at Queen of All Saints Church in Crested Butte on September 14 at 10.00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, we think she would love donations to the Gunnison Animal Valley Welfare League or the Covenant House.