Colleen Gay Tollefson, wife of Ken Tollefson passed away in Monarch, Alberta on January 6, 2026 at the age of 69 years. 

Colleen was born October 29, 1956 in Calgary, Alberta. She was predeceased by her parents, Ralph and Patricia Zuehlke and by her niece Kimberly Dawn Palmer.  She is survived by her two sons, Jamie and Jody Tollefson, her brother Robert (Lynn) Zuehlke and her sister Cindy (Richard) Palmer.

She is also survived by many nieces and nephews and Ken’s Family; Margo Tollefson, Arnold Tollefson, Dorothy (Short) Tollefson, Bev (Donaldson) Tollefson, Marlene (Howse) Tollefson, Mike Tollefson and Darcy (Lori) Tollefson.

Colleen was born in Calgary, Alberta where she lived until her teens when the family moved to Warner, Alberta and then the family settled in Lethbridge, Alberta. Here is where she met the love of her life and married Ken Tollefson. Then this is where their busy lives began, with the arrival of twin boys, Jody and Jamie Tollefson. Her devotion to her two sons and husband were evident every day. Later in life she worked at the Lethbridge regional Hospital in Day Procedures for many years. She loved this job in many friendships were made there. Once she retired, she could enjoy the things she loved to do, such as cooking, sewing, and of course helping others in need. Of course her best time of her life was camping with friends and family.

In her later years we watched her suffer with many ailments which she did with courage and dignity. Despite this she still gave herself to others when she saw the need.

Most people have told me she will be remembered for her big smile and of course big warm hugs. She will be forever missed. Love you to the moon and back!

In lieu of flowers, you may donate to the charity of your choice. 

A Celebration of Colleen’s life will be held on Saturday August 1, 2026 at the Monarch Community Hall at 1PM.