Martin and Lena Valdez

Marvin Valdez (77) and Lena Valdez (76) of Penrose, Colorado were always together in life. Their bond was so strong that they could not be split even by death. They went to join the lord on consecutive days this past week. Both of their lives revolved around their love of their grandchildren, Wyatt, Carlo and Alana Valdez Pace of Pueblo.

Marvin taught his grandsons how to enjoy the outdoors through hunting and fishing. Lena was an amazing seamstress and cook, with the best green chili recipe. Her granddaughter especially loved baking brownies with her. Marvin was born in Redwing, Colorado and spent his early years as a ranch hand and miner in several rural Colorado communities. He served in the Army where he discovered Oktoberfest in Germany. After his service upon returning to Colorado he met his beautiful wife and life partner Lena Herrera. They built their home together in Penrose and turned dry land into a thriving farm over the last four decades. Marvin worked the rest of his career for Black Hills. He was active in IBEW 667 and received The IBEW Life Saving Award for saving the life of one of his colleagues.

Lena Herrera was born in Florence, Colorado and worked at a high-end restaurant in Canon City, where she picked up additional cooking tips. She was a dedicated mother and worked in the school district and St. Scholastica in Canon City to always be close to her daughter.

Marvin and Lena Valdez touched so many lives and will be missed by many because they had hearts of gold.

In addition to their grandchildren they are also survived by their children Marlene Valdez Pace of Pueblo and Frank Garcia; Marvin’s siblings Andrew Valdez, Dorothy Montoya, Donald Valdez, Flora Valdez, Mable Guerrero, Ruth Gallegos, Juanita Gill, and Eddie Valdez; and Lena’s sister Julia Lucero.

A Rosary will be held Monday 11/22 at 6 PM. Joint Funeral Mass Services will be held Tuesday 11/23 at 10 AM at St. Michael Church in Canon City. Burial at Union Highland Cemetery in Florence.

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