Kay Callahan

Kay Callahan was born to Agnes (Jahns), and Lloyd Sybrandt on Jan. 28, 1939, in Johnstown, CO. She was 2nd of 6 children, growing up on a nearby farm; learning to love the raising of crops and livestock that she carried with her for the rest of her life. After graduating from Johnstown in 1957, she attended college, before traveling extensively throughout the continental U.S. and eventually visiting all 48 lower states and Alaska.

Having arrived in San Jose, Cal.; she met and married Joe Gloria. Their shared interest of the outdoors-as well as her love of the country life led to the purchase of a small farm outside of San Jose, where she was able to raise her 2 young children, and teach them her love of the country life; raising all the standard livestock; from cattle, hogs, sheep, chicken, as well as more exotic examples, like pheasants, geese, chukars, and quail. Her husband Joe, raised in the city, embraced the country lifestyle, and introduced Kay to thrills like drag races, car shows, air shows, deep sea fishing, and flying. It was during this time she achieved the distinction of earning her private pilot’s license; so they could travel together.

On July 12, 1985, her beloved Joe passed unexpectedly, leaving 2 small children to raise. So, missing her home, and wanting to reconnect with her family, she pulled up stakes and moved back to Colorado, to Yampa, CO. Now, close to family, she focused on raising her children, volunteering at school functions until she eventually took over operating the cafeteria for the elementary, Jr, and high school for the South Routt County School District.

After several years, seeking a warmer climate; she found herself in Cedaredge, CO. Having raised her children, and with an empty nest, she indulged her love of the outdoors again, filling her days with fishing, hunting, hiking, cross-country skiing, bird watching, and travelling. It was during this time, she met another like-minded traveler, and on Sept. 15, 1995, married Johnny Callahan; and spent the next 10 years travelling across the west, visiting family and friends on both sides of their families.

After the passing of her husband John, Kay moved down to Olathe, CO. to be closer to her family and enjoy her growing grandchildren. Kay passed peacefully, on Wed June 18, 2025, at Crossroads senior living Center.

Kay is survived by her son, Daniel Gloria (wife Patricia) of Olathe, Colorado, Naomi Burkey of Mills, Wyoming. Grandchildren Mackenzee (husband Steven), Felicia (husband Kyle), and Jacob, and 5 great grandchildren: Hayden, Allie, Xavier, Xamara, and Xannon; Brothers Van, and Ray Sybrandt of Steamboat Springs, Co, and Jim Sybrandt of Colorado Springs, CO sisters Lynn (Steve) Hilfers of Colorado Springs, Co. and Ann (Jon) Sobeski of Steamboat Springs, CO.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Hope West Hospice of Delta.

A Celebration of Life will be held Sept 6, 2025, at Montrose Event Center, 648 So. 1st St. Montrose Co