Gertrude G. (Gardner) Tyler Hyjek passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 17, 2014, at Crestfield Rehab Center, Manchester, CT, with her granddaughter by her side. Born and raised in Manchester, Trudy graduated from Manchester High School in 1940. Dancing was a large part of her life from the time she was four years old and continuing into the 2000s. In 1948 she opened a studio in Manchester under the name " Gertrude G. Tyler School of Dance", which she owned and operated until she retired in 1987. During this time Trudy taught many children and adults the various forms of dance. She was fondly known as "Miss Trudy" to her students, many of whom later pursued a career in dancing. Trudy and some of her students entertained at many charitable events for which she was honored with an Official Proclamation from the Town of Manchester on the occasion of her 80th birthday. Trudy was also recognized by the Manchester Arts Commission for her contribution to the arts. Once the studio closed, she continued to enjoy dancing and at times instructing the Dancercise classes held at the Manchester Senior Center. Trudy is survived by her beloved husband of 51 years Edwin R. Hyjek of Crestfield Rehab Center; Ed's son John Hyjek and wife Elise of Atlanta, GA; daughter- in-law Diane L.Tyler of Tolland; grandson John G.Tyler II and wife Maureen of Glastonbury, and granddaughter Jacquelyn M. Warwick and husband Geoffrey of Tolland; four great-grandchildren Courtney M. Tyler, John L.Tyler, Kellie L Tyler - all of Glastonbury - and Nicholas J. Warwick of Tolland; as well as many cousins, dear friends, and former students. Trudy was predeceased by her parents John H. and Stella (Czykiewicz) Gardner, and her only son John G.Tyler. In Trudy's honor and in lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to the Town of Manchester for a scholarship to be given to a student also seeking a dance career or a charity of the donor's choice. The family wishes to thank the entire staff at Crestfield Rehab Center especially Kandi O'Brien, APRN, for their care, compassion, and friendship. Friends and family are invited to gather for a memorial service on Saturday, April 26, 2014, from 9 - l1 AM at the John F. Tierney Funeral Home, 219 W. Center St, Manchester, CT. Burial will be private at the convenience of the family.