Gloria Maria Rice

Gloria Plaza Rice, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 10, 2025 in Fort Collins, CO at the age of 75.

Gloria was born in Omaha, Nebraska. She married Derald Rice in 1969. They moved to Salina, KS, and then to Fort Collins, CO in 1976.

Gloria spent the majority of her career working in the Colorado State University Financial Aid Office as a financial aid counselor. She was a recipient of the CAFAA Administrative Employee of the Year Award. Gloria was dedicated to helping students, and many of them came back after graduation to thank her for all her help.

Gloria had a deep love for her family and friends. She was a friend to everyone and made friends everywhere she went. Those who knew Gloria will remember her as kind, loyal, and compassionate.

Gloria was a member of Saint John XXIII Catholic Church and it was an important part of her life.

Gloria is survived by her husband, Derald; daughter, Michelle (Derek); son, Joey; grandchildren, Rebecca, Aliciana, Cassandra, and Cameron; and her brother and sisters, Tony (Sue), Cecilia (Tom), Anita, Rita, and Christine (Kip). She is also survived by her German Shepherd, Bella Chica.

Gloria was preceded in death by her parents, Gloria and Ernesto Plaza.

Viewing will be from 2-7pm with the rosary to follow at 7pm, Tuesday, July 15, 2025 at Bohlender Funeral Chapel. The funeral mass will begin at 10:30 am, Wednesday, July 16, 2025 at Saint John XXIII Catholic Church. Interment will follow at Grandview Cemetery.