Chris "Ms. Awe" Zasada

Chris “Ms. Awe” Zasada

Chris "Ms. Awe" Zasada left this world suddenly and unexpectedly on Nov 2, 2023.

She was born July 21st, 1953, in Rockford, IL the daughter of Leo and Marion Zasada. 

She is survived by: Sisters Patricia Dace and Jenni (Bob) Coupar; nieces Karin (Cory) Cox, and Keli (Steve) Ritter; nephews Michael (Carolyn) Zasada, Dan (Samantha) Robertson, and Jon Robertson; many cousins and great-nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by father Leo Zasada, mother Marion Zasada, and sister Cindy Zasada.

She is described by most who ever met her as the kindest, happiest, most empathetic, compassionate and joyful person they ever met. She had a ready smile, a twinkle in her eyes, and a contagious and unmistakable laugh. Her love and light were easy for all to be near. 

People and dogs were drawn to her energy and light... and the dog treats she always had in her pockets helped as well. She made many friends from her daily walks at Pathfinder Park.

Her greatest loves besides her family and friends, were her dogs, Jessie the Great Dane (earlier in life) and Sunny and Skyler over the last 11 1/2 years. 

Chris was a lifelong educator, teaching Special Education throughout her career. She started teaching in IL, then moved to California for many years, and then finished her teaching in Colorado. She loved doing anything to help and support kids and even did tutoring for a while after retiring. She also belonged to the local retired teachers' group and helped get the word out for their monthly luncheons.

She encouraged everyone to get out and vote this year, (and every year) because there were many issues on the ballots that were all about schools and kids. She was civic minded and loved supporting her town, and the activities held here, from First Fridays to festivals, and always the art openings held by her many artist friends. She even volunteered with the kid's summer art program held each summer by her friend and artist Pat Wiles.

Chris was also a lifelong learner and student. She attended the Senior Mini College every year without fail. She loved discovering new things, attending classes, and her Gaia channel where the world opened to so many topics and ideas for her.

She was always keen on adventure and traveling. She loved traveling with her sister Jenni as well as Zetta, her lifelong friend since they were 5. When Chris was in California, she visited Zetta in Canon. Chris loved it so much here on her visits that she bought a house here before she even retired.

She LOVED her new home in Canon City.

Part of that love stemmed from her warm welcome and activity in the OWLs women's group where she gained many, many dear friends. She and Zetta hosted many potlucks and activities, game nights and more. She also attended a book group each week with a small group of her friends.

Upon Zetta's passing 7 years ago, she adopted Zetta's dogs Skyler and Sunny. She had been with them from the beginning and was with them till the end.

Chris Exuded joy wherever she went. She often ended emails, letters or cards with In-Joy. Her kindness and her generosity were well known by any who knew her. She never said an unkind word about anyone. She was the kindest, most considerate, joyful, funny, happy, person any of us have ever known. 

We will all miss her dearly.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Humane society.

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