Grace Runge

Lifelong Burlington, CO resident Grace Runge, 77, passed away at her home in Burlington on Monday, April 4, 2022 following a brief illness.

Grace Ellen Runge was the fifth child born to Melvin Runge and Viola Einspahr. Other children were Elvira, Howard, Ruby, Doris and John. Grace was born on the family farm on Election Day. The doctor, after delivering Grace, stayed and listened to election returns on the radio. A few days later, Grace appeared to be having medical issues as she turned black so her Grandma Runge baptized her. The family moved to Burlington when she was in 2nd grade. The kids, prior to this time, lived in town and spent weekends on the farm. In 5th grade, Grace won runner-up in the county spelling championship. She always had a book in her hand, reading just about anything. She also played piano by ear and could pick out any song she heard. Both of these past times were very dear to Grace throughout her adult life.

In later years Grace became the coordinator for a food distribution program. She also worked for the Kit Carson County for 40 plus years. She took up gardening as a pastime and shared her beautiful flowers and bountiful garden with family and friends. She even taught friends how to grow their own vegetables. Aden was always her garden helper. As a young girl Grace became a very accomplished seamstress. She designed her niece Della’s formal for prom as well as her wedding dress. She deconstructed and remade many dresses for Chelsea as well. She was very talented and was always called upon when something needed fixed. Grace was always there for anyone in need. Seeing a need and doing, especially for family, instead of waiting to be asked. She often remarked that she was her mother’s daughter when it came to helping others.

She spent many evenings traveling to baseball games for Dustin and softball games for Chelsea. The last few years she became the trusted dog sitter for Chelsea’s dog Sarge who she loved as her own. She made many trips to Julesburg to watch Dustin race, even when the weather was blistering hot. She was so proud of the two of them. She cherished the friendships of her close friends and enjoyed any time she could with them. She loved spending time with her cats, Kersey and Fluff. Grace chose to keep her illness to herself and throughout the process gained a close friendship with her neighbors, the Reents’ family.

Preceding her in death were her parents, 3 brother-in-laws, 1 sister-in-law and her niece Della Purviance.