Anne Marie "Ginny" Kay

Anne Marie "Ginny" Lasser Kay

July 2, 1918 - December 7, 2024

Anne Marie "Ginny" Lasser Kay, a remarkable woman whose life spanned over a century, passed away peacefully on December 7, 2024, at the age of 106. Born in Rankweil, Austria, on July 2, 1918, to Joseph and Mary Lasser, Ginny's early years were marked by resilience and determination. Her parents emigrated to the United States in search of a better life, and Ginny joined them at the age of 11, overcoming language barriers to reunite with her family in Denver, Colorado.

Ginny’s father, Joseph, was a Freedom Fighter who served as a Machine Gunner with the Allied Forces during World War I. After being granted U.S. citizenship, he sent for Mary and GInny to join him. Despite the challenges of U-boat activity delaying her passage, Ginny finally arrived in America at the age of 12, meeting her father and younger sister for the first time at Denver's Grand Central Station.

An exceptional student, Ginny quickly mastered the English language and thrived academically. The family settled on a small farm east of Denver, which later became part of Lowry Air Force Base. They relocated their home to East Denver, where Ginny's journey continued.

In her early career, Ginny pursued modeling and even owned her own studio, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit and passion for the arts.

In 1941, Ginny's life took a romantic turn when she met Army Soldier Stephen Robert Kay on a bus trip downtown. Their love story led to a whirlwind wedding in 1942 at Fort Leonard Wood, just before Stephen shipped overseas for active duty in World War II. Despite a Kansas dust storm and a broken leg for her father, the wedding proceeded, symbolizing the strength and determination that defined Ginny's life.

Together, Ginny and Stephen raised six children: Stephen John, Michael Joseph, Judith Anne, Lawrence Christopher, Karen Marie, and Kevin Robert. The family moved to Warrensburg, MO, where Stephen retired, and eventually returned to Denver.

Ginny's thirst for knowledge never waned. In 1983, with her children grown, she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology, followed by a Master's degree. She dedicated her career to working with children in federally funded programs, retiring at the remarkable age of 99. Even in her later years, Ginny enjoyed excellent health but chose to retire to avoid the daily commute.

Ginny is survived by her loving children, Stephen Kay (Sandy), daughter in law Eileen Kay, Judy Ramsay (Chuck), Larry Kay, and Karrie Howard (Brian); her cherished grandchildren, Lisa McDonald (Steve), Brian Kay, Susan Ekblade (Scott), Jeremy Kay, Laura Kay, Shannon White (Steve), and Pam Herre (Marc); and her adored great-grandchildren, Nathan Herre, Kate Herre, Xander Farlinger, Tyler Farlinger, Tyler McDonald, and Jack Howard.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Mary Lasser; her sister, Goldie Hyland; her sons, Michael Kay and Kevin Kay; her grandson, Robert Howard; and her granddaughters, Tammy Howard and Stacy Farlinger.

Ginny's legacy is one of love, resilience, and unwavering dedication to her family and community. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Viewing: 10:30 am – 11:15 am

Funeral Service: 11:30 am – 12:30 pm

Cemetery Service: 2:00 pm at Fort Logan National Cemetery

Celebration of Life: After the cemetery service, please join us at Old Chicago in Lakewood for pizza, beer, and shared memories.