April 6, 1950 ~ April 2, 2024
Kay was born to C.W. (Bill) and Nancy Brennan on April 6, 1950, and departed from this life at her home on April 2, 2024, just four days before her 74th birthday. Kay fought a six-month battle with cancer, and the cancer demon had to fight one hell of a battle before inevitably overcoming. Kay grew up in a ranching family on Piceance Creek, and it was immediately apparent she was cut out for the life as an excellent stockman and horseman. She would follow and excel in her chosen career, feeding her animals even on the day of her passing.
Kay married Harold Bumguardner and they moved off the family ranch, with a son, CL, born to the couple before they separated. Kay ran her own ranches in various places, before settling in Mesa, Colorado, where she single-handedly raised an excellent herd of commercial cattle that were sought after by cattle traders and youngsters looking for Club calves. She was also recognized for having an excellent herd of Registered Longhorn Cattle, which were always enjoyed by everyone who saw them. Kay’s outstanding ability for raising and training excellent Quarter Horses was always admired. Kay enjoyed competing in rodeos, garnering success in barrel racing, team penning and sorting, and most of all enjoyed the people and dear friends met while competing and ranching. She also had an amazing talent for animal and scenery photography, which she freely shared on Facebook with everyone. Kay dearly loved her friends and family, but if she thought you were not doing the right thing, she could straighten you out in no uncertain terms, and you knew damn well you had been straightened! The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude for all the help Kay received from dear friends and neighbors.
Mourning her passing are son CL (Jamie), her grandchildren Jillian and Chayton, and brothers Mike (Jackie), Jim (Beverly), and Dick (Sandie). She will be deeply missed by nephews and nieces Neil (Kari), Matt (Haley), Rachel, Rebecca (Brad), Ben, Erin and great nieces and nephews Harrison, Mia, Brennan, Emma, Kyle, Kaitlyn, Hattie, Milo, Murrey and one expected, and a huge host of friends and neighbors.
Kay left strict orders there would be no formal funeral. The family plans on hosting a celebration of life when the weather warms up and “the work is all done this spring.”
