Verna Jeane Hadley Colleni Brunson

Born June 11, 1934, in West Weber, Utah, Jeane was the youngest of eight children born to Oscar E. and Verna Hadley. She attended West Weber Elementary and graduated from Weber High School.

On November 1, 1952, at the age of 18, she married the love of her life, August “Gus” Colleni. Together they raised three children–Carla, Don, and Joe–on 4100 West in West Weber, just down the street from where Jeane was born. That street, that house, and that close-knit community were the heart of her life. She often said, “It’s not much, but it’s all I need,” and she truly meant it.

Jeane was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Her faith was a quiet strength that guided her throughout her life and gave her deep comfort in both joyful and difficult times. She served with humility, trusted in God’s plan, and often spoke of the peace and perspective her beliefs gave her.

Jeane and Gus were not only partners in life but also in business. Together, they owned and operated Top of the World Supply in Ogden, Utah–a feed, coal, and grocery store that served the community for 26 years. The store wasn’t just a place to shop; it was a gathering place where everyone was welcome, no matter what language they spoke or where they came from. Jeane and Gus treated everyone like a friend, and their store became a beloved neighborhood landmark.

After Gus passed away, Jeane found love again and married Phil Brunson. Together they shared 17 years of companionship and adventure, training racehorses, and enjoying retired life.

Jeane was energetic and easy to talk to, with a remarkable way of making everyone feel seen. She took a genuine interest in people’s lives, remembered the details, and always made others feel important. Her laughter was contagious, and her heart was full of love.

Her greatest pride and joy were her grandchildren, Elizabeth Staples (Mark) Fallentine, Brian (Staci) Staples, Spencer (Corianne) Staples, Megan Arde, and McKay (Tory) Colleni; and her 10 great-grandchildren. She never missed a chance to ask about their lives or to brag about their accomplishments. She cheered at ballgames and piano recitals, applauded graduations, and celebrated every milestone with genuine pride and joy.

She was also a talented and passionate handcrafter. Jeane’s knitting, crocheting and needlepoint were works of love and art–she made countless afghans for weddings, births, and special occasions. Her creations were treasured gifts that warmed both homes and hearts. She often entered her handiwork in local fairs and proudly brought home ribbons for her skill and creativity. She generously shared her talents with others, always with a warm smile and a willing heart.

Though the last year of Jeane’s life brought physical hardship, she remained at home, lovingly cared for by her two sons, Don and Joe, with help from her granddaughter Megan. Jeane often commented on their sacrifice and devotion, and her family will always cherish those tender, shared days.

Jeane left this world the way she lived in it–dancing. Just weeks before her passing, she gifted her family with a final dance at her great-granddaughter’s wedding, a joyful and symbolic celebration of life that those who were there will never forget. That moment–her radiant smile on the dance floor–will be treasured always.

Jeane is survived by her sons, Don Colleni and Joe (Mitzi) Colleni; her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren; stepchildren; and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her husbands, August Colleni and Phil Brunson; her loving daughter, Carla Colleni (Rod) Staples; son, Randy Brunson; her parents; and seven siblings.

A celebration of Jeane’s life will take place on Friday, June 27, 2025, 11 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Chapel, 4100 West 900 South, West Weber . Friends may visit with family on Thursday from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at Lindquist’s Ogden Mortuary, 3408 Washington Blvd. and Friday from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the church. Interment, West Weber Cemetery.

Family and friends are warmly invited to come together to share memories, celebrate her remarkable life, in tribute to a woman who lived with joy, resilience, creativity, unwavering faith, and a heart open to all.

Condolences may be shared at: www.lindquistmortuary.com.