Savannah Lee Gelles

Savannah Gelles Obituary

Savannah Lee Gelles, 22, passed away April 30, 2017. She is the daughter of Michelle and Tony Gelles and was born in Ventura, California. She grew up in Lake Havasu, Arizona and later moved to Durango, Colorado, where she graduated from Bayfield High School. Her hobbies and interests were boating, being outdoors, riding horses, band, choir, cheerleading, photography, Pokemon, concerts, movies, going out with friends, meeting new people, jokes, sunflowers and succulents, although a green thumb wasn't her expertise. She was a romantic, always finding the perfect words to say. Her favorite quote was "That's the cat's pajamas." She was an eloquent writer, talented photographer, had a great sense of humor, extremely honest, generous, compassionate, could be a force to be reckoned with, never hesitated to state her mind and she lived and loved passionately. Savannah worked at Olde Tymers Cafe, Bank of Colorado, WJ Doyle and Community Banks of Colorado.

She is survived by her mother and father, grandparents Don and Kacy Gelles, Terri Gelles and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. She is preceded in death by grandparents Carl and Dolores Burski.

To quote Elliott Harwood, the love of her life '"Savannah's infectious laughter and ability to create comfort in the most trying of times are an everlasting impression. When I see sunflowers, I will always think of her. Her bond with her mother was stronger than the moon pulling waves and her father, an amazing man, rises up to face the challenges of life and pours every ounce of energy left into making sure his "Sunshine" was happy." I will love her unconditionally forever."'

The family would like for Savannah's experience to inspire mental health awareness, education and community outreach.

In lieu of flowers and to assist Savannah's family with expenses, donations may be made in the name of Savannah Gelles to any Community Banks of Colorado locations or https://www.youcaring.com/gellesfamily-813580.

A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Durango Herald on May 4, 2017.

Memories and Condolences
for Savannah Gelles

12 Entries

Kij´a Runkel

April 27, 2022

We are just 3 days shy of it being 5 years since you left this earth. I think of you often and when I see anyone that bears any resemblance to you, I catch myself doing a double take. You pop up in my memories on Facebook and seeing that your profile photo hasn´t changed in 5 years while the rest of ours have is just another reminder that you are frozen in time. I pray you are held closely by God and that you know truly how loved you are. I love you, sweet girl

Bonnie Neeper

April 28, 2021

Hello Vanna, I miss you so much and I can’t believe that we are coming up on your 4 year anniversary of your passing. I keep telling myself that you are at peace but it is so hard. I know you and Anthony are together in heaven having fun. That puts my heart at ease. Please keep a watchful eye over Hannah. Till we meet again, have fun in Paradise. Love ya Savannah. C u soon.

Bonnie.

April 28, 2019

I miss you so much Savannah. Please keep a watchful and protective eye over Hannah please. Give Anthony a big hug and kiss for me. I love and miss you so much. Rest in peace our sweet Angel.

J. Hodge

May 17, 2017

I am sending my sincere condolences to the family. May you find comfort in this thought found at Isaiah 61:1,2 which reads in part" God sent his son to bind up the brokenhearted and to comfort those who mourn."

Melissa Strand

May 7, 2017

I am sending my love and prayers to you. You might remember me from the drugstore. I lost one of my daugters to cancer last June so I know a parent's pain and I lost a sister to suicude. I know that your feelings are your feelings and I would never say that I know how You feel. I will just send you love.

Bonnie Neeper

May 5, 2017

I love you Savannah

Lorraine Boblitt

May 5, 2017

I did not have the pleasure of knowing this beautiful young woman. This was a wonderful tribute. There are so many people that suffer from mental illness and hopefully this tribute will touch someone and give them courage to ask for help. My thought and prayers to you all.

Kate Sutton Kruchell

May 5, 2017

I met Savannah when she worked at the bank in City Market. She was funny & adorable & each interaction we shared was a lovely and lively one. To honor her, I will attend the suicide summit at Miller Middle School next week. Shine on, Sunflower. You made a difference in my life.

Kathleen Van Duzee

May 4, 2017

Michelle and Tony, finding the right words is so hard. I simply wish you comfort and healing at this time and God Bless Savannah.

Daniel Barnes

May 4, 2017

I had the pleasure of working with Savannah and everyday she had a positive outlook on everything she set her mind on. She was a people person and everyone would always ask where she was if she was out. She was kind and made an impression on me as well as everyone that knew her. My prayers are with the family and also Elliot! Im terribly sorry for your loss.

lee

May 4, 2017

2 Kings 20:5 "I have heard your prayer, I have seen your tears I will heal you. With deepest sympathy.

Linda & Rod Humble

May 4, 2017

In deepest sympathy, sending prayers to Michelle, her family and friends at this very sad time.

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