Obituary of Esther Velasquez
April 20, 1929 – November 28, 2024
Esther Velasquez, a devoted educator and community leader, transitioned
to eternal life on November 28th, 2024. Her remarkable journey began on
April 20, 1929, in Delagua, Colorado, where she was born to Jesus and
Ophelia Gonzales.
At the heart of Esther’s life was her 76-year marriage to Edward Velasquez.
Together they raised five children, Edward Jr., Lynda/Jon Kirkwood, Dave
Velasquez/Valerie Chavez, Teresa Garrison, and Celeste/Jeff Olinger and
created a family legacy that spans generations-13 grandchildren and 29
great-grandchildren stand as a testament to a life lived with love and
purpose.
Esther and Edward made Aguilar their home in 1952. Professionally, Esther
was a cornerstone of Aguilar High School’s business education
department. For 27 years, she inspired students, earning a reputation for
exceptional guidance and encouragement. Her academic preparation
included degrees from colleges in Pueblo, Alamosa, and Gunnison,
culminating in a Master’s Degree in Business Education.
Following her retirement in 1990, Esther’s commitment to service never
wavered. She continued to serve St. Anthony Parish in multifaceted roles,
including secretary, bookkeeper, and Pastoral Associate. Her ecclesiastical
contributions were recognized through prestigious awards, including the
Pro Ecclesia Et Pontifice Papal Award. She was a respected member of
numerous Catholic organizations, including the Catholic Daughters and the
Diocesan Council of Catholic Women. Her leadership extended to national
roles, serving as Providence Director for multiple dioceses.
Esther is survived by her husband of 76 years Edward, children Lyn, Dave,
Teresa and Celeste, her sister Victoria Davis, brother-in-law Raymond
Miller, brother-in-law Drew Neve brother-in-law Joe/Nancy Velasquez,
sister-in-law Do lores/Carmel Cordova and sister-in-law Helen Cordova.
Esther was predeceased by her son Edward Velasquez Jr., parents
Jesus/Ophelia Gonzales, sisters Josephine, Benita and Yvonne, brothers
Rudy, Max and Joe. She was also predeceased by her grandsons Eric
Velasquez, Greg Garrison and Nick Barbaro.
As we remember Esther Velasquez, we celebrate not just a life lived, but a
life of service, compassion, and unwavering commitment to family, faith,
and community.
Active pallbearers are Mark Velasquez, David Velasquez Jr., Justin
Garrison, Richard Garrison, Kevin Flores and Mark Densmore.
Honorary pallbearers are Dave Velasquez Sr., Jeff Olinger, Jon Kirkwood,
Joseph Miller, Davey Crocket, and Josh Buckner.
Visitation Thursday, December 12th, 2024, from 4:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M.
Followed by a Rosary at 7:00 P.M. at Mullare Murphy Funeral Home.
Mass of Christian Burial Friday, December 13th, 2024, at 1:00 P.M. at Holy
Trinity Catholic Church with burial following at the Trinidad Catholic
Cemetery.
The Family has entrusted Mullare Murphy Funeral Home with the
arrangements.
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