With heavy hearts we announce that Charles Bernard Martorano left us to join his wife in
Heaven on June 15, 2025 at the age of 95. He died peacefully at the Spanish Peaks Veterans
Community Living Center, where he was taken care of so lovingly.
Charles was born on October 19, 1929 to Josephine (Mazzarise) and Bernard Martorano in
Sopris, Colorado, the youngest of nine children. He graduated from Sopris High School and
from there joined the United States Air Force, proudly serving in the Korean War. Charles
was Superintendent of the Colorado & Wyoming Railway Co. working for 35 years until his
retirement in 1986. He then returned to the working class as a railroad consultant for the
next few years.
Chuck married the love of his life, Mary Rose DeBono on November 30, 1957 sharing 65
years together. They were role models for everyone who believes in eternal love, for those
who trust that there really is a “one and only.”
Chuck found joy in being outdoors, cooking, cleaning, and fixing things around the house.
He especially loved the horse races and trips to the casinos. He was an avid Denver Nuggets
fan. He looked forward to spaghetti dinners on Sunday when the family got together. He
also enjoyed spending time with his daughter at Picture These Photos especially when he
played Santa and the Easter Bunny for holiday shoots. He was a member of the Elks, VFW,
and American Legion.
Chuck was a tough but gentle soul with a kindness that engulfed his entire existence. If he
was teasing you, you knew he liked you.
Chuck was the last of his generation, preceded in death by his siblings Mike, Anne,
Carmella, Joe, Mary, Sal, Angela, Antoinette and their spouses. Also waiting for him are his
parents Josie and Bernard Martorano and in-laws Ross and Marian DeBono.
Charles sadly leaves behind his only daughter Debra (Terry Gumlich), his adored grandson
Vinnie Gumlich (Virginia Jimenez), special nieces Diana, Sue, and Frances along with
numerous nieces, nephews, loving caregivers and countless friends. His love for family was
most important to him and he will forever be etched in our hearts.
We celebrate his life at Holy Trinity Catholic Church on June 24, 2025 with a rosary at 9:30
am and a funeral mass at 10 am.
Arrangements made under the care of Comi Funeral Home.
