Gwendallen Rose Koepke was born on March 23, 2004, in Fallon, Nevada, to Cindy Koepke and Brandon Kelly. She was a quiet, shy little girl until she got to know you, then look out, she would become a fun and quirky goofball. Gwen was a passionate Christian, and the light that she possessed carried through her years, extending to one of her greatest highlights of life-- the Rodeo Bible Camp of Oregon. Her avid enjoyment included riding bikes and hanging out with friends. While studying the blessing of God developed a strong character in Gwen that blossomed into volunteering at the camp to continue the spiritual growth in others.
She attended Logos Christian Academy in Fallon, Nevada, K- 8th grade. Her 9th and 10th grades were at Oasis Academy in Fallon, and she finished high school at Steptoe Valley High School in Ely, Nevada. She loved all animals and owned horses, dogs, cats, rabbits, goats, and pet steers that she broke to ride. Her love of God’s creatures led her to various pathways such as FFA and even being one of the founding youth members of the High Desert Grange Chapter. A huge part of Gwen was the love she had for horses—this led her to Junior Rodeos, Trail Trials, and even the breaking of colts for her own personal use on the ranch with her cows. Her love and hardworking attitude created an admiration for the abilities she possessed. These abilities brought her to the opportunity of her recent employment with Schott Ag Air, in which not only was she accomplishing a CDL but, in fact, obtaining her pilot’s license. Her no-fear attitude towards life allowed her so many opportunities that others could never accomplish.
Gwen returned home on December 19, 2023. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her. She made life fun. Gwen is preceded in death by her father, Brandon Kelly, and her grandmother Cherry Rosenlund Knight. The people that she is survived by loved her deeply and she will always hold a light in their life. Her light touched countless people throughout her years on this Earth, which led her back to her Savior. Her kindness and laughter will be greatly missed, but overall, she will be cherished by the people who had the privilege of knowing her. She is survived by her mother, Cindy Koepke Kelly, brothers Ty (Darlene) Kelly and Justis (Isabel) Kelly, four nephews, and one niece. Her grandparents are Doug and Joyce Koepke and Tom and Diana Gonzalez. Along with numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, her boyfriend, and friends that called Gwen family.
A celebration of life will be on January 13 at 1 p.m. in Orovada, Nevada, at the Orovada Community Center on Rock Creek Road.
Donations can be made to Rodeo Bible Camp of Oregon at www.rodeobiblecampoforegon.com in Gwen’s name.
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