BOULDER, Colo. — Rozanne Penka, a beloved member of the communities in the Boulder, Colo. area, passed away peacefully on July 24, 2024, in Westminster, Colo., at the age of 86.

Born on Aug. 17, 1937, Rozanne dedicated 34 years of her life to religious service as a Catholic nun. Her journey of faith and service touched many lives, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew her.

After her years of religious service, Rozanne settled in Niwot, Colo., where she found a new calling. For nearly 20 years, she ran her own alterations shop, affectionately becoming a cherished figure known as the “Alterations Goddess” in the local community. Her shop was not just a place for clothing repairs; it was a haven of warmth and friendly conversation. Many residents will remember her skilled hands, meticulous work, and the genuine care she showed for each person who walked through her door. After selling her shop, she continued her alterations work out of her home until just a few months before her passing. Rozanne was also deeply involved with the Columbine Unity Church in Boulder, Colo. She greatly valued the relationships she made with a wide variety of people. She treasured the connections she formed and the love and support she both gave and received. Rozanne also had a special place in her heart for her cat, Gracie, who was her constant companion.

Rozanne is survived by her loving brother, Wilbur Dean Penka, and his wife, Cecile, of Redding, Calif., and her brother’s wife, Karen Penka. She was preceded in death by her parents, Lee and Agnes Penka; her brothers, Lucas Lee Penka, James Michael Penka, and Duane Roger Penka; and her sisters, Willa Jean Shulte and Leonilla Penka. Her family, friends, and all of her many communities will deeply miss her.

A memorial service will be held at the Unity Columbine Spiritual Center in Boulder (8900 Arapahoe Rd, Boulder, CO 80303) on Aug. 24, 2024, at 11 a.m. Reception to follow.

May she rest in peace.

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, Aug. 3, 2024