Jesus Gallardo

Jesus M. Gallardo, Jr., 83, of Florence, CO, passed away peacefully at home on April 20, 2026, surrounded by the life he built and the love he gave so freely.

Born May 1, 1942, to Jesus and Mary Gallardo, Jess grew up in Florence and graduated from Florence High School in 1960. Soon after, he answered the call to serve his country, joining the United States Army—a chapter of his life that reflected his strength, discipline, and quiet pride.

At the center of Jess's world was his wife and soulmate, Toni Lynn, with whom he shared 62 beautiful years of marriage. Together, they built not just a home, but a life rooted in loyalty, laughter, and deep devotion.

Jess was a man of many chapters, each one shaped by hard work and purpose. He began his career at the Colorado State Hospital, where he worked as a Senior Psychiatric Technician, caring for those who needed it most. Later, he followed his passion for building—literally—becoming a skilled construction carpenter. His hands helped shape luxury homes in the Black Forest area of Colorado Springs, and eventually, he built a home of his own for his family in Florence—a place filled with memories that will live on for generations.

Never one to sit still, Jess continued his journey with the Department of Corrections, where he rose to the rank of sergeant and served for 20 years before retiring. Even then, retirement didn't quite stick—he went on to work alongside his brother, traveling across the United States as a sandblaster for an environmental power plant company. Work, to Jess, wasn't just a job, it was a reflection of his grit, his independence, and his drive to keep moving forward.

Outside of work, Jess had a deep love for Colorado and its teams. A true fan through and through, he cheered hardest for the Denver Broncos—win or lose, always loyal.

He is survived by his loving wife, Toni Lynn Gallardo; his sons, James Gallardo (Christina Ellis) and Richard Gallardo (Patricia Gallardo); his grandchildren, Jamie Gallardo, Justin Gallardo, Tyler Gallardo, Ashley Skogen, and Anastasia Jack; his great-grandchildren, Lyric Rose Gallardo and Rowen Skogen; his brother, Felix Gallardo (Edith Gallardo); his sister, Jessie Arellano (Cruz Arellano); and numerous nieces and nephews.

Jess was preceded in death by his parents, Jesus and Mary Gallardo; his brother, Robert Gallardo; his sister, Elizabeth Garcia; and his daughter, Jeannette.

Jess will be remembered as a man who built things that lasted—homes, a career, a family, and a legacy of resilience and love. His presence was steady, his work ethic unmatched, and his

devotion to those he loved unwavering.

He leaves behind a life well-lived, a family deeply loved, and a story that will continue to echo in every space he helped create.

A Rosary will be held at 9:25 a.m. on Tuesday, April 28, 2026 followed by a Funeral Mass at 10 a.m. at St Benedict Catholic Church. Burial to follow at Union Highland Cemetery.

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