Mountain Valley Mortuary

02/13/2026

Mary Evelyn Tapia

Mary Evelyn Tapia was born June 22, 1940 in Los Alamos, NM. She was the daughter of Avelino and Rose Tapia. She spent some of her childhood in New Mexico before the family moved to Colorado. The family lived in Manassa, CO before moving to Monte Vista, CO.

Mary worked as a sales associate at Western Auto, a department manager at K-Mart, Bookkeeper/Director of Operations for Valley Fresh, General Manager for Legacy, and Bookkeeper/Director of Operation for Expo, LLC/Farm Fresh Direct.

Some of her favorite things to do were gardening, taking care of her yard, breeding huskies and poodles, baking and cooking. One of the highlights of her life was visiting with people. She loved it when she would go out visiting or people would come over. Her kitchen was a place of socialization, laughter and love.

Mary is survived by her son, David Tapia(Mindy), daughters Valerie Day(Keith), Rosemary Armenta(Frank), and Danielle Steward(Billy), grandchildren: Bridget Clark(Jeremy), Nicki Tapia, Heidi Garrett, Ashley Flores(Chris), Brittney Bustos, and Liam Steward, great-grandchildren Emily Ellithorpe, Avery Ellithorpe, Ethan Ellithorpe(Katy), Brooklyn Clark, Aiden Clark(Ariel), Samantha Flores, Charlotte Flores, Wyatt Wolfe and a great-great granddaughter Oakley Ellithorpe.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Avelino and Rose Tapia, son, Anthony Armenta.

Cremation was selected and a Vigil Service with Recitation of the Rosary will be held thursday February 19, 2026 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Monte Vista beginning at 7:00 pm. A Mass will be held Friday morning at 10:00 am also at the church. To express condolences, please visit www.mvmortuary.com

View Mary Evelyn Tapia's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/11/2026

Linda Mix

Linda Price Mix was born in Glenwood, Colorado to Lee and Jean Price on August 11, 1939. Linda grew up in Eagle, Colorado and attended Ft. Lewis College In Durango. Colorado, graduating with an Associates degree in Business.

Linda married Sherrel Mix on May 15, 1960 in Durango. They moved to the San Luis Valley and farmed in the Sargent Community for many years. They celebrated 61 years of marriage. Linda and Sherrel loved to travel, going to many places.

Linda in preceded By her husband Sherrel, her parents, a brother and sister.

She is survived by a daughter Michelle Rogers, a son Roger (Rosalie) Mix and four grandchildren; Ryan Mix (Allison), great grand daughter Macy; Michael Mix (Elizabeth); Brandon Rogers; and Bailey Rogers. A niece Kathy and nephew Jeff.

Linda was selected to the Master Farm Homemakers Guild of Colorado. She was long time member of the Town and Country Club, General Federation Women's Club. Linda also volunteered for many charity organizations.

She truly enjoyed being with her friends. Especially the trips with the Potluck group, and many good times were spent just being together. She also enjoyed bowling, playing cards and golfing.

Cremation was selected and a private family service will be held at a later date. Contributions are suggested to the Rio Grande Hospital Foundation and may be made in care of the funeral home. To express condolences to the family, please visit www.mvmortuary.com

Arrangements are in the compassionate care of Mountain Valley Mortuary.

View Linda Mix's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/05/2026

Roger Holland

Roger Holland, born on May 14, 1968, in La Jara, Colorado, peacefully passed away on February 1, 2026. He was the beloved son of Robert J. and Arlene Moore Holland. Roger grew up in the close-knit community of Manassa, Colorado, where he shared his childhood with his brother Robert. Together they formed deep-rooted friendships that would last a lifetime.

Throughout his life, Roger ventured across various states, living in Colorado and Oklahoma, but his heart always remained in Manassa, where he eventually returned to his roots. He cherished the memories of his upbringing and the community that shaped him.

Roger's spirit will live on in the hearts of his surviving family members, including his brothers, Robert (Stacey) Holland, CJ (Raquel) Holland, and Donny Polson, his sisters, Christy Ortega and Loretta (Brent) Conaway, as well as his treasured nephews and nieces, all of whom will miss him dearly. He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Clarence and Mavis Holland, his father Robert J. Holland, his mother Arlene Moore, and his cherished nephew Chase McCoy.

Cremation has been selected, and the family will announce a time for services and ceremonies to honor Roger's life at a later date. Roger Holland will be remembered for his gentle spirit and the love he brought to those around him.

View Roger Holland's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/02/2026

Sean Christopher Cruse

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Sean Christopher Cruse, who left us too soon on January 29, 2026, at the age of 30.

A memorial service will be held to celebrate Sean's life on February 7, 2026, at 2:00 PM at the Holly Springs Baptist Church, located at 16928 US Highway 59 Garrison, Texas . Please join us in honoring the incredible person Sean was and sharing your favorite memories. His spirit will live on in the hearts of everyone who knew him.

View Sean Christopher Cruse's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/29/2026

Perry Dale Alspaugh

On January 28th, 2026, Perry Dale Alspaugh passed away at the age of 75. Perry was born in Del Norte, CO on October 30th,1950 to Lyle & Velma Alspaugh. He was married to Danae Alspaugh (Bates) on June 28, 1984 in Del Norte, CO.

Perry and Danae worked hard building a life in La Garita, CO. Together they ran an outfitting business and loved sharing their mountain life with friends and family. Perry served in the Navy and retired from the State of Colorado as a 3rd generation Water Commission.

Perry is survived by his son Buck Newton (Jesseca Newton), Nathan Goddard (Lisa Goddard), daughter Autumn Squires (Waylon Squires), several grandchildren, and one great-granddaughter.

The family will be doing a private celebration of life for him. He will be laid to rest, joining his wife, Danae, and daughter, Shannon Weeth.

View Perry Dale Alspaugh's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/29/2026

Larry Dan Pacheco Sr.

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Larry Dan Pacheco Sr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, who departed this life on January 28, 2026, at the age of 80. Larry was born on November 9, 1945, in Del Norte, Colorado, and was a proud resident of the same community throughout his life.

Larry's unwavering commitment to serving others was evident in every aspect of his life. He married the love of his life, Veronica Pacheco, on June 7, 1969, and together they built a loving family characterized by compassion, support, and dedication. A proud veteran of the United States Army, Larry served during the Vietnam Conflict and carried that sense of duty into his career in law enforcement, where he worked for approximately 15 years as a Jail Administrator at the Rio Grande County Sheriff's Office. His devotion extended beyond his professional life, as he was an active member of Search and Rescue, where he served as a certified rescue diver, was part of a Child Protection Team, and helped those in need. Larry was also a proud member of the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW).

Larry was truly one of a kind, a devoted protector who was always there for his children and grandchildren. Larry's love for the outdoors was evident in his passion for hunting, fishing, and camping, activities that brought him great joy and a deep appreciation for nature. Above all, he was a family man: a steady provider, and someone who never hesitated to lend a helping hand. His generosity, kindness, and loving spirit left a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Larry is survived by his devoted wife, Veronica, and their loving children: Cindy Atencio, Larry "Bino" Dan Pacheco Jr., Spring (Ben) Moyer, and Consuelo Pacheco. He cherished his role as a grandfather to eighteen grandchildren and a great-grandfather to fourteen great-grandchildren.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Dennis Joe Pacheco and Theresa Isabelle Pacheco; his children Edward Krueger, Sarah (Kevin) Waltenburg, and Dennis Edward Pacheco; his grandchildren Rheagan Pacheco and Brennan Andrew Pacheco; and his sister Betty Jean Pacheco.

In honor of Larry's life and legacy, cremation has been selected, A Vigil Service with Recitation of the Rosary will be held at 6:00 pm on Friday February 6, 2026 at the Holy Name of Mary Catholic Church in Del Norte. A Mass will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday February 7, 2026 also at the church followed by the interment of ashes with military honors in the Del Norte Cemetery. The family invites all who knew Larry to join in honoring his remarkable life and the impact he had on all of us.

Larry Dan Pacheco Sr. will be profoundly missed and forever cherished. Though he may no longer be with us, his love, laughter, and legacy will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him and love him.

View Larry Dan Pacheco's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/26/2026

Adonais "Don" Ermuinio Garcia

Adonais "Don" Garcia passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by his loving family, on January 24, 2026. Don was born on July 3, 1937, in La Garita, Colorado. In 1956, he married the love of his life, Erlinda Velarde, and together they raised eight children.

Don was a longtime resident of Center, Colorado. A hardworking man, he spent much of his life in physically demanding jobs before returning to school to become a Master Mechanic. Known throughout the community as the "town mechanic," Don worked on vehicles from his home, always willing to lend a helping hand. After retiring from auto mechanics, he spent more than 15 years doing electrical work alongside his sons. Following the passing of his beloved wife, Don devoted his days to cleaning and caring for the La Garita Cemetery.

Affectionately known as "Dee Dee," "Grampo," and "Pompo" by his grandchildren, Don cherished his family above all else and took great pride in passing down his wisdom. He especially enjoyed hunting and fishing with his family, creating memories that will be forever treasured.

Don is survived by his tribe:

Patricia (Kim) Mikules - Jeffery; Stephanie (Mike) Chavaria - Porscha (Enzo & Easton); Raymond and Lorenzo Punihaole.

Richard (Michelle) Garcia - Denise (Jeremy Hall) Garcia - Gabriela; Karen (Lynelle) Garcia; Teri (Clinton) Phillips - Jacy, Lane & Logan; Dawn (Mike Hudak) Garcia - Layla; Elias - Elias Jr. & Elicia.

Thomas (Cheyenne) Garcia - Johnathan; Mark - Zayden & Zander; Catherine (Kevin) Valdez; Nevaeh (Jeremy Talbott) Pacheco - Leiana; Anthony Garcia; Christian Donaldson; Eli Garcia; Anthony Trujillo.

Dorothy Garcia - Jeremy; Jillian (Mike) Soto - Aiden, Jayde & Camila; Jasmine (JJ Jiminez) Vigil - Malakai & Mila.

Danny (Sandi Atencio) Garcia - Danica (Jose Navarro) Garcia.

Billy Garcia - Kevin (Maria Nungaray) Garcia - Tanzen; Zachary (Uyuki Chavez) Garcia; Damian Ramirez.

Ilene (Marcelino Casias) Garcia - Joaquin, Reyes, Amerae.

Michael (Amanda) Garcia - Airik (Roxanna Gonzales) Garcia - Khaleesi, Kemina & Klaira; Monique; Mica (Jacob Franco) Garcia - Jace; Auzzie; Atty.

Also surviving Don is his nephew, Alan (Susan) Lucero, whom he raised as his own.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Erlinda Garcia; daughter, Lenora Garcia; grandson, Reyes Casias; daughter-in-law, Mary Garcia; and his parents, brothers, and sister.

Cremation was selected a Vigil Service with Recitation of the Rosary will be held at 7:00 pm on Thursday February 5th at St. Francis Jerome Catholic Church in Center. A Mass will be held at 2:00 pm on Friday February 6th in La Garita at the Capilla de San Juan Bautista Catholic Church with interment services to follow in the La Garita Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family would ask that you volunteer in the La Garita Cemetery to carry on Don's passion for beautifying it. You can also donate a new cross to the cemetery for the loved ones buried there.

View Adonais Garcia's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/19/2026

Richard Frasier

Richard "Dick" Allen Frasier has entered into his rest and is in the care of his Lord, Jesus Christ. Dick died Sunday morning, January 18, at San Luis Valley Regional Medical Center, with his wife, Jae, at his bedside. He was born in Alamosa, Colorado on February 14, 1957, the fifth of eight children of Russell and Lois (Swain) Frasier. Dick lived his entire life in the San Luis Valley including several years as a child across the state line in Taos County, New Mexico. As a child, he enjoyed playing outside with his brothers and sister, along with his pony, Cocoa, and his dog. The family returned to Colorado in 1967, and Dick attended schools in La Jara and Monte Vista before starting his farming career.



Dick farmed in the Center area for many years. For several years he grew carrots and more recently he grew lettuce. He was a successful farmer, known for his dedication and work ethic, which often meant leaving the house before the sun came up and getting home long after it went down. He lost his right arm in a farming accident as a young man - an experience he overcame with ingenuity, hard work, and determination. Over the years, he found ways to modify many pieces of equipment to ensure he could always get the job done.



Dick and first wife, Nancy Hettinger Gardner, were married in Center on January 16, 1982. They made their home just outside of Center and raised her son, John Gardner, there. They were married for 37 years before Nancy's death on April 15, 2019. Dick and Nancy enjoyed traveling and gardening.



On December 20, 2020, Dick and JaeLeen Nelson Gibson were married in Monte Vista. Together, they enjoyed traveling to visit family across the country, including their grandsons in North Carolina, who loved when they would come to stay. In the summers, they hosted their grandsons for visits to "the farm" that included tractor rides with Grandpa Richard. Together, they attended the Monte Vista Community Methodist Church.



Dick was known to many in the San Luis Valley as a good friend, honest businessman, and hardworking farmer. He took pride in his work and treated people with fairness and respect, bringing a memorable and cheerful smile to his many interactions. He will be sorely missed by his large family and many friends, including his buddies from the Gunbarrel Station, where he was a local fixture.



Dick was preceded in death by his parents Russell and Lois, his first wife, Nancy, and his brother Kenneth. He is survived by his wife JaeLeen, stepson Bijah (Kirsten) Gibson and sons Cooper, Graham and Harrison, stepdaughter Kyanna (Jake) Guerrero, stepson John Gardner and his sons John and Wyatt. He also leaves behind his brothers Donald, Robert (Rhoda), David (Barbara), Henry, Bruce (Sherry) and his sister Lorie Blea and many nieces and nephews.



Cremation was selected and a Memorial Service will be held at 10:00 am on Monday February 16, 2026 at the Monte Vista Community Methodist Church. Contributions are suggested to the Beaver Creek Youth Camp and may be made in care of the funeral home. To express condolences or share memories with the family, please visit www.mvmortuary.com



Arrangements are in the compassionate care of Mountain Valley Mortuary.

View Richard Frasier's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/09/2026

Geneva Shumaker

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Geneva Kay Shumaker, who left this world peacefully on January 9, 2026, at the age of 78. Geneva was born on July 25, 1947, in Idabel, Oklahoma, a few years later, she moved to Monte Vista.Geneva was a proud registered member of the Choctaw Tribe in Oklahoma, her legacy illuminated by her connection to her grandfather, Senator Whiteman, the first Native American Senator in Oklahoma. After graduating from Monte Vista High School in 1967, she carried forward her family’s rich heritage with grace and pride.She dedicated her life to her family and her passions, including dancing, the great outdoors, and a love for horses. An avid gardener, Geneva took joy in cultivating her garden and sharing its bounty with neighbors and friends, reflecting her generous spirit and love for those around her.Geneva is survived by her loving son, John Myers, and her daughter, Christine Myers. She will also be lovingly remembered by her siblings, Linda Cordova of Alamosa, Colorado, Sue Felthrop of Canon City, Colorado, Joyce McNair of Idabel, Oklahoma, Debbie Lujan of Walsenburg, Colorado, Ted (Sheri) Dyer of Madison, Maine, and Neil (Betty) Dyer of Meno, Arkansas. Her remaining family includes numerous cherished nieces and nephews who will deeply miss her.She was preceded in death by her husband, Dan Shumaker, as well as her parents, Bessie Whiteman Dyer and John Dyer, and siblings Johnnie Dyer, Florine Shenold, Jene Dyer, and Shirley Griner.Geneva’s family will hold a Celebration of Life beginning at 12:00 pm (noon) on Friday January 16, 2026 at The Trump Store in Monte Vista located at 102 Adams Street in Monte Vista, to honor her life and legacy. Although she has left this earthly realm, Geneva’s spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. She showed us what it means to nurture, to give, and to love unconditionally.In our sadness, we celebrate the beautiful life she lived and the countless memories she leaves behind.

View Geneva Shumaker's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/08/2026

🕊️ Planning Ahead: Peace of Mind for You and Your Loved Ones 🕊️

Join us for an informative and compassionate presentation on the importance of preplanning funerals and making end-of-life preparations.

🗓 January 13th | 6:00 PM
📍 The Bridge at Alamosa

Stephen Hunzeker, Owner of Mountain Valley Mortuary will guide attendees through the emotional, financial, and practical benefits of planning ahead—helping ease the burden on loved ones during a difficult time.

This is a thoughtful opportunity to learn, ask questions, and gain clarity around decisions that bring peace of mind for both you and your family.

👉 Learn more & RSVP:
projecthelping.org/spark

Hosted in partnership with Project Helping SPARK and AmeriCorps Seniors.

💙 Community • Compassion • Preparation

01/06/2026

Come join me at The Bridge in Alamosa. It is open to the public and a great opportunity to get any questions answered that you might have.