Al Valdez

Al Valdez, a resident of Fort Collins for more than 60 years was called home on Friday, June 13, 2008. He celebrated his 90th birthday on Sunday, June 8. He was born in Mora, N. M. on June 8, 1918. Al was a Word War II veteran, where served in England, Germany, Belgium, and France. He worked for Poudre Valley Creamery for 20 years, CSU for five years, and 15 years at Poudre R-l, when he retired in 1986. He married Molly Chavez on Aug. 17, 1947. The couple would have been married 61 years. The couple had one child, Veronica Ronnie Burton; and three grandchildren, Denise Leeney, Dawn Roth Denver and Eric Moran, all of Fort Collins. He was the last living person in his immediate family preceded in death by his parents, Jose and Adelida Valdez; brothers, Bernie and Joe Valdez; sisters, Patty Lovato, and Paulita Sisneros. He leaves behind a large extended family of nieces and nephews, a multitude of family and friends. Uncle Al will always be remembered for his smile. He loved people, he liked to laugh, talk and visit. Al was a gentle soul, kind and considerate. The family often hears stories from personnel at the Poudre R-1 Ad Building about the many tasks he would do for other people; the family favorite story is of how he would sweep paths on a snowy day out to individual cars. Al was an active man; he loved to fish, served Holy Family Church and enjoyed watching high school sports. He was a very giving person, and never had a harsh word or thought for anyone. He actively served Holy Family Church for many years and was a 4th Degree Knight with the Knights of Columbus. His last formal ceremony with the Knights of Columbus was dedicating the Larimer County Justice Center when it opened Sept. 2000. The family extends their gratitude for the care and kindness that our beloved Husband, Dad and Grandpa received from Blue Grouse Nursing Home. We can never fully express the love care, and consideration that we received from these special caregivers. The Rosary and Mass of Christian Burial will be held, at 10 a.m. Thursday at Holy Family Catholic Church. Interment with Military Honors by the Fort Collins All Veterans Honor Guard will follow at Resthaven Memory Gardens Cemetery. Father Damian de la Cruz, C.R. will officiate at the services. Friends may send condolences to the family at bohlenderfuneralchapel.com.