Jesse A. Godinez

Jesse A. Godinez, 82, of Ft. Collins and founder of the El Burrito Restaurant died February 22, 2017. Jesse was the fifth son born to Jesus Godinez and Agustina Ayala Godinez in a house on Cherry Street, in Fort Collins, CO., on February 15, 1935.

He was preceded in death by Jesus(Father), Agustina (Mother), Nick(brother), Joe(brother)and Ariana (granddaughter).

Survived by Dorothy Flores Godinez(wife), Daughters: Christi Godinez (Gary Gabaldon); Mona Godinez (Tony Ortiz); Connie Godinez (Phil Campbell); Gigi Godinez, and Jessi Hoodak. Grandchildren Anthony Ortiz (Janet), Isabella Cordova, Amanda Hoodak, Samantha Hoodak, Alison Hoodak and Great grandchildren Anthony Ortiz, Jr., Theresa Ortiz, Catrina Manchego, Jolene Ortiz, and Christopher Ortiz.

Jesse was born in the middle of the Great Depression and at a time of extreme racism but that never stopped him from attaining his goals. At the age of four his father passed away and he remembers not being able to attend his fathers' funeral because he didn't have shoes. In the early days, with his widowed mother, he would help dole out burritos to the migrant farm workers for a small fee.

When he began school, he only knew Spanish but was only allowed to speak English. For fear of corporal punishment, he quickly learned English. Jesse graduated from Fort Collins High school and married his high school sweetheart Dorothy, in 1957. He went on to finish two years of College and was drafted in between semesters. He served twice and was very proud of serving his country.

After serving the first tour, he returned home at the young age of 23, missing his Mom's cooking, he put his entrepreneurial skills to the test. With the help and encouragement from his wife, Dorothy(co-owner); mother, Agustina (Chef 1960-1986); brothers, Joe (logo artist), Guillermo (partner 1960-1981); Augie (manager 1960-1991); and sister in-laws, JoAnn and Rose, on September 23, 1960, El Burrito Cafe (Sam's Place) was born.

In business, he was the man behind the scenes, running the show incognito. He loved being in business. He referred to El Burrito as his "baby." Walking the perimeter each morning and making mental notes. Throughout the last 57 years, there have been numerous people who have helped fulfill and continue to fulfill his dream and legacy. His stubborn and optimistic view helped accomplish anything he set his focus on. As a worker bee, he wore many hats...and wouldn't have had it any other way. At any given time, he oversaw and physically labored as chef, accountant, manager, and maintained the upkeep of his business.

Family was very important to this man whenever anyone needed help he was there. He was there for anyone, really. He didn't realize how much of an impact he had on the community. Throughout the years, he helped so many young people through employment and advice. He was always ready and willing to help anyone who wanted to fulfill their own entrepreneurial dreams, clear to the end of his life. His "baby" is Celebrating 57 years with the same family at the same location. It was and still is a family affair, his bond runs deep. Now operated by the 3rd, 4th and 5th generations of Godinez's and their extended family.

Jesse was a very generous man (especially with advice). He was a kind man, a true entrepreneur, and most of all he was a Great Dad. If his body would have allowed, he would still be walking the perimeter of El Burrito Restaurant "Sam's," and making mental to do notes. Rest in peace Jess, Dad, friend, entrepreneur, good citizen, and mentor. A big grateful thanks to everyone who consoled and helped during this trying time. Those of you who knew him stop by El Burrito and share your stories, the Family would love to hear them.