Marcia Ellen Kestner

Marcia Ellen Kestner,

age 53, of Lakewood, Colorado, passed away on October 8, 2017, near Arch Cape, Oregon.

She was on a bicycle tour of the Oregon coast, doing something she loved.

Marcia was born on February 15, 1964 in Rock Springs, WY, to Vaughn and Laverna Kestner. She started school in Worland, WY, and later moved to Basin. She graduated as valedictorian of her class in 1982. She attended the University of Wyoming and went on to become a professional engineer and department head at Tallgrass Energy. She married William Gashler, of Laramie, WY.

One of Marcia's favorite quotes was, "Life is an adventure, or nothing at all." She enjoyed bicycling and was a ranked bicycle distance racer who competed in long distance races such as Ride the Rockies and other US and European races, as well as touring New Zealand by bicycle with husband Bill. She enjoyed white water rafting and explored many rivers including the Colorado (Grand Canyon), Salmon and Arkansas. She loved the outdoors, camping and traveling, and was a leader in her spiritual community.

Marcia touched many people with her warmth, generosity, and kindness. She loved family and friends and was always ready for camping trips and family celebrations. She was also a steady support to others in times of sadness or challenge.

Marcia is survived by her husband, William, of Lakewood, CO; her parents, Laverna Kestner of Las Cruces, NM, and Vaughn Kestner of Basin, WY; her sisters, Jill (Steve) Leinen of Laramie, WY, Teresa (Jack) Nauman of Basin, WY, her brother, Gary (Anne) Kestner of Lakewood, CO, her sister in law, Carol (Dennis) Eschen of Basin, WY; nephews Alex, Eric, Levi, Scott, Sterling and Spencer and niece Jessie and their families. She is preceded in death by her brother, Craig, and nephew Brock Kestner.

Family and friends will gather at the Lakewood Colorado Elks reception room on October 22, 2017 at 2 PM to honor and celebrate Marcia's life.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Malala Fund (Malala.org) or a local project of your choice to help others.