Kathleen Marie Hannum

Obituary for Kathleen Marie Hannum

April 14, 1943 – October 2, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Kathleen Marie Hannum, who left this world surrounded by love and with her family by her side.

Kathleen was born on April 14, 1943, in Denver, Colorado, to her parents Katherine Louise Witmar and Hyrum Bert Sheffer. She was a devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother, nana, mother-in-law, and friend, whose kindness and warmth touched everyone who knew her.

Kathleen graduated from beauty school and built a successful career in the field of hair; both as a salon owner and later as a teacher at the Aveda Institute, where she shared her passion and skills with students. Earlier in life, she also worked with animals as a veterinary assistant, reflecting her love and compassion for living creatures.

She had a creative spirit and found great joy in quilting, sewing, and crafting beautiful things with fabric. Kathleen was also a gifted storyteller, always sharing wonderful memories of her childhood and family. Her great sense of humor and infectious laugh brought light to those around her.

Kathleen is survived by her daughter, Shannon Ewing, and her son, Shad Gilbreath, daughter-in-law, Jenny, as well as her three cherished granddaughters Kayleigh, Tessla and Layla, who were the light of her life. She was preceded in death by her oldest son, Shawn Gilbreath, her beloved husband, Manny Hannum, and her first husband, Donald Gilbreath.

A Celebration of Life will be held onWednesday, November 5, 2025, at 11:00 a.m.Aspen Mortuary6370 Union Street, Arvada, CO 80004

Please join us in honoring and celebrating Kathleen’s beautiful life and the legacy of love, laughter, and strength she leaves behind.