Colleen McKinley

Colleen Carol McKinley passed away unexpectedly of natural causes at home on September 20, 2026.

Born on December 13, 1941 to George Elmer and Mary Ahern Flynn, Colleen was raised in Missoula, MT where she attended Sacred Heart Academy. Following her graduation from the University of Montana, where she received a Bachelor of Science in Textiles, Colleen moved to San Francisco and began her career in retail management as the manager of Lanz of California. Colleen continued in the retail industry after moving to Denver with management positions at May D&F, Montaldo’s, and Colorado Baggage Company.

Staying true to her upbringing, Colleen built strong ties to the Denver community through her engagement with the Christ the King School, Cranmer-Hilltop Civic Association, Denver Ballet Guild, and most recently, the Society of Saint Vincent De Paul. She had strong convictions and believed that making a difference required engagement, work and long-term dedication.

Throughout her life, Colleen brought people together. She sustained friendships spanning decades and held them dear, and in doing so she gave her grandchildren a lasting example of what it means to be part of a community and to be present for those you love.

At the center of Colleen's love was her husband of 55 years, Gary McKinley. Their adventures began on the drive home to California after their Montana wedding. They drove through Denver and decided that was where they wanted to build a life together. From their love grew a family, lasting friendships, meaningful work, and lots of laughter. In retirement, those adventures widened through international travel, where they embraced new cultures and friendships.

Colleen is survived by her husband, Gary McKinley, her daughter, Maura McKinley Tull and her husband, Philip Tull. She loved her grandchildren, Harrison Tull, Braden Tull and Caroline Tull. She is also survived by her brother-in-law Edward Courtney; niece, Allison Courtney (Robert Cales); and many relatives and friends. Colleen was preceded in death by her parents, and her sister, Marifrancis.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate the life of Colleen McKinley at a Funeral Mass on Monday, October 5, 2026, at 10:30 am at Christ the King Catholic Church, 860 Elm Street. A reception will follow the Mass. Colleen will be laid to rest in Missoula, MT at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Colleen’s memory may be made to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul at Christ the King, and the Denver Ballet Guild (Please specify Young Dancers Competition).