Manuelita Nellie Orona

Manuelita "Nellie" Orona, 81, of Fort Collins, died October 26, 2014 at her home. Nellie was born January 1, 1933 in Fort Collins to Abelardo H. and Fabiana Mata. Nellie lived in Fort Collins with her sister Josephine. Nellie contacted polio at a very early age which left her disabled. Nellie's siblings were grateful and thankful to Josephine for making the sacrifice of caretaker to Nellie so that the rest of the family could have time with their families. Although Nellie had no formal education she was bilingual and could converse with anyone. She was very well liked and became an icon in her community. The family would like to express their appreciation for all the people that had helped in numerous ways to make Nellie's life filled with happiness. Survivors include her brother, Steve and Dolores Mata, Jacinta Gonzales, Jenny Freques, Carmen Walker and many nieces and nephews all of Fort Collins. Preceding Nellie in death are her parents. A Rosary and Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Holy Family Catholic Church on Friday at 9:30 a.m. Interment will follow at Resthaven Memory Gardens Cemetery. Memorial contributions can be made to the Nellie Orona Memorial Fund in care of Bohlender Funeral Chapel, 121 W. Olive St., Ft. Collins, CO 80524.