Chyrl Ann (Amsden) Collins

Chyrl Ann Collins of Santa Rosa, California, passed away peacefully at her residence on Saturday, February 7th, 2026, at the age of 81. Her absence is deeply felt as family, friends, and colleagues acknowledge the lasting impact she made. Though she is no longer with us physically, her legacy endures in our memories and daily lives.

Chyrl is survived by her husband, David Gunsaulis, along with his children, Ken Maurer and Tricia Keithley and their families; her daughter, Kandee Shuken, granddaughters Carly and Amanda; their father, Gabe Shuken; son, Bradley Darois and his family; brother, Butch Amsden and Sue Amsden; nephew, Sean Amsden and Kristen Amsden; and extended family members Grady and Nicole Cummings, and Ann Amsden.

Born on May 24, 1944, Chyrl spent her formative years in Philip, South Dakota, enjoying a musical upbringing and involvement with her family's airport. She valued time with her grandparents in Milbank, South Dakota, frequently recalling these experiences throughout her life and sharing regularly in her last months with us that she was looking forward to going “home.”

Chyrl relocated to California in 1964, where she raised her daughter as a single mother in the San Francisco Bay Area eventually settling in Brisbane.  Dear friends became family and 50 years later still hold a special place. They enjoyed day trips to the coast to watch hang gliders, spent hours listening to music together and shared a love for laughter, family and friends. Chyrl forged enduring friendships and developed an appreciation for Sonoma County's wine country and the style of San Francisco. Eventually, her family came to California from South Dakota as well. 

Throughout her career, Chyrl worked in the hospitality industry, ultimately becoming part of the Sonoma County Tourism Bureau, from where she retired and began to enjoy beloved time with David. She shared her enthusiasm for tourism and wine with many, instilling an appreciation for Sonoma County’s offerings among those close to her. Chyrl also enjoyed shopping, cherished her granddaughters, and developed a passion for riding Harley Davidson motorcycles, eventually owning her own.

In 2008, Chyrl met David on New Year’s Eve, and they were married in Las Vegas in October 2015, completing their family. It would be remiss not to mention their shared love of their first dog together Doodle, and our current family member, Eddie. They shared an affinity for Harley motorcycles and for blues and jazz music, frequently attending live events together and dancing the night away. David recalls her fondness for family gatherings and credits her with emphasizing the significance of family bonds.

Chyrl was recognized for her distinctive style and quick humor both which were sparkling. Her infectious laughter and wit left a memorable impression on those around her.

A private service for the family will be held on Saturday, March 14th, at Santa Rosa Memorial Park, where Chyrl will eventually rest alongside David.

A Celebration of Life will follow at the Santa Rosa Moose Lodge at 3559 Airway Drive, Santa Rosa CA 95403 from 2:00–5:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 14th. Family and friends are invited to attend.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Chyrl Ann (Amsden) Collins, please visit our floral store.