January 25, 1946 – August 26, 2024

“The idea is to die young as late as possible.”

So lived Lynn Boersma. Her family—husband Richard, sons Matt (Boulder) and Ian (Denver), and daughter Sarah Simon (Steamboat)—said their farewells Monday, August 26, at Poudre Valley UCHealth in Ft Collins. Lynn developed a sudden, fast-developing viral encephalitis of unknown origin that proved untreatable, and “died young” at 79.

If there was a theme in Lynn’s life it was fondness for others. She was so generous with her love. Those lucky enough to have known her felt her warmth on first contact, while we (her family and closest friends) were the full beneficiaries. It was rarely about her, so this obituary isn’t the usual “education, career, hobbies” as she was less a story than a presence—a spirit—now ambered into our individual memories.

Lynn also made it clear that funerals, memorials, and celebrations of life were not her thing, and we’ll honor that as well. A good suggestion to all who knew her would be a donation in any amount to the Nick Would Foundation, via the Yampa Valley Community Foundation (https://yvcf.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=3574). The NWF celebrates her grandson Nick Simon’s life, ended tragically just 22 months ago, by funding opportunities for disadvantaged youth to experience real, sometimes life-changing outdoor activities they would never know otherwise. It’s a good cause, and Lynn would thank you.