Gina Abegg, 78, passed away peacefully on April 12, 2025, in Aurora, Colorado, when her passionate and indefatigable human heart finally gave way to eternal rest.

A beloved mother, sister, grandmother, and friend, Gina lived a life marked by curiosity,  resilience, and deep devotion to those she loved and the causes she believed in. Her gentle spirit and fierce strength left a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

Through her work in Montessori, Peace Education, Non-Violent Communication, Politics, and Community Activism, Gina exemplified values in action. She spent her entire life taking a non-negotiable stand for what she believed in- Love, Peace, Connection, Kindness, the miracle of children, the equality of all people, and the ability to follow the rhythm of her own innate music in a world that continually tried to get her to stop dancing. Gina stood up to parents, teachers, systems, stereotypes, politicians, anyone that tried to draw her from her values- and told them politely but firmly- nope, no one is the boss of me. With an eternal soft spot for the disenfranchised and excluded, she built bridges and fostered community and invited everyone to the table.  She stood up for herself and for others constantly, and went out fighting with all she was for the values that she held most dear.

Gina was unlike any other, curious and playful, independent and always seeking adventure. Gina always saw opportunities everywhere to create what didn't yet exist to the benefit of others, and did so without apology, complaint, or protest. From collaborating to start the Denver Children's Museum and the public Toy Library in the 70s and 80s, to co-founding  Montessori Children's House of Denver with her daughter Rachel Averch in 1991, to contributing to Non-Violent communication, storytelling and Peace education always, Gina's tireless work benefited countless children and families throughout the Denver community for more than 50 years.

Sometimes generous to a fault, Gina never once met a stranger. She would quickly find the good in everyone she met and never shied from an opportunity to help someone in need. With a quick wit and an intuitive heart, she would mine the best in others, reflect it back to them, and give them space to shine in a way that few others could.

Gina loved her friends and family above all else and was eternally proud of her children, grandchildren, and extended and self-selected family members. She taught her daughters how to love without condition and to fight like hell for what they cared about. She raised them to be open-hearted, open-minded, compassionate, and curious about the world. She taught them the importance of hard work, perseverance, character, laughter, and loyalty.

Gina's life was a testament to the power of love, peace, connection, friends, and family. The ripple of her passionate life are incalculable, and the seeds of kindness and connection she planted are evidenced throughout the community.

She is survived by her loving sister, Linda Chambers; her ex-husband and dear friend Chenia Abegg; her devoted daughters, Rachel Averch (and her husband Kevin) and Jessica Abegg; and her cherished grandchildren, Zaelig Averch (and his wife, Daina), Adiv Averch, Liam Hoebel, Quinlan Hoebel, and Mattingly Hoebel. Her legacy lives on through them—in their kindness, creativity, and connection to one another and the world around them.

A Celebration of Life will be held in her honor on Saturday, May 17th, 2025, 3:00 pm at Heather Gardens Auditorium 2888 S. Heather Gardens Way Aurora, CO 80014.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor Gina's memory by spending time with loved ones, inviting someone to your table, offering a compliment to a stranger, and extending kindness in your community in any way you can.