Gloria Mai

It is with great sadness to announce the passing of Gloria Ann Mai.  Gloria was born on August 16, 1960 in Wichita, Kansas.  Gloria went to Fort Hays State College in Hays, Kansas and later moved to Colorado in the early 80’s where she lived until her passing on April 1, 2023.

Gloria’s life would seem too short for many, but those that knew her would tell you that her love for life and working to be the very best at everything she did made the quality of her life just as important as the length of her life.  Although Gloria may have struggled with her illness in the past few years, she remained faithful in her relationship with God, had a never-ending hope of healing and believed in the power of prayer.  Her courage and hope during this time was a beautiful reminder of just how precious life is and how important our family and friends are in good times and in bad. 

During high school and college Gloria excelled in sports. Basketball, volleyball, track and softball were among her favorites.  She was an avid snowboarder/skier and cyclist.  Most likely there was not a sport or a mountain that Gloria was not willing to tackle! 

One thing that Gloria will always be remembered for is her love of animals.  She had many cats and dogs over the years and each held a very special place in her heart.  Dock Dogs became one of Gloria’s favorite sports to compete in.  Gloria and her dogs Sport and Tia were very successful in the Dock Dogs competitions. Gloria’s love for animals did not stop at the ones in her home and heart. She was a dedicated advocate for local and national rescue operations.  One of the rescue operations that she supported was MAD Rescue (Malinois and Dutch Shepherd Rescue Inc.).  Her work in this rescue and others had made such a difference in the lives of animals that would not otherwise have had a chance to find a happy and safe fur-ever home.

Over Gloria’s 23 years at Visa, her participation in Dock Dogs competitions, the volunteer work in rescue organizations and her relationships with neighbors, she found herself to be surrounded by a group of the most kind, caring, supportive and generous friends.

Gloria is survived by her mother, Mary Morris, brother, Gary Mai, sister-in-law, Lori Mai, nephew, Christopher Mai, niece, Tiffany Mai, sister, Wanda Birdwell, brother-in-law, Dale Birdwell, best friend, Scott Melle, aunts, Elaine Bigge and Carol Shepherd, uncle, David Tomasheck, cousins, caring friends and last but not least her beloved dogs Tia and Cotton. 

Gloria is preceded in death by her father, Donald Mai.

Gloria’s family wishes to thank the many kind and compassionate individuals at Littleton Adventist Hospital.  Their outpouring of love and care to Gloria and her family during this difficult time will always be remembered and we are truly thankful.