Angelina Velasquez

Angelina (Angie) Velasquez, a longtime resident of Las Mesitas , Colorado, passed away on Saturday October 07, 2017 after battling dementia.  Angie was born May 6, 1924, 93 years ago, to Bonifacio and Acianita Gonzales.  She attended school in Las Mesitas and graduated not far from where she was born.  She lived there for the rest of her life. She pursued a higher education, graduated from high school in 1941 and immediately started college at Adams State College where she put herself through school by working part-time at various jobs. Upon completion, she received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in 1947. Angie taught at Fort Garland, San Rafael, Ortiz and culminated her career in Antonito where she taught for a total of 45 years. Angie prided herself on her school children. In 1986 she was honored with the South Conejos School District Teacher of the Year Award.  In 2012 she was inducted into the First Annual Educator Hall of Fame at Adams State College.  Her career was just a small portion of her life. Angie taught Sunday School and Summer School at the Presbyterian church in Antonito where she was involved in the administration of the congregation.  She was one of many key people responsible for the restoration of San Rafael Presbyterian Church, a historical site designated by the state of Colorado. She was a member of the Presbyterian Women’s Group.  Angelina loved embroidering, puzzles, reading and church projects.

She was preceded in death by her father, Bonifacio; mother, Acianita Gonzales; brothers, Elizardo and Armando Gonzales; sisters, Clorinda DeHerrera, Velma Martinez, Bertha Martinez, Beatrice Suazo and Zoby Cisneros; and most recently her daughter. Eunice Aderhold (Norm).

Angelina is survived by her son and daughter –in-law, Eugene and Diana Velasquez of Peralta, NM; five grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; and many beloved nieces, nephews and cousins.

Per her wishes, cremation has been selected.  A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 14, at Presbyterian Church in Antonito, CO.   In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to San Rafael Presbyterian Church, Mogote, Colorado. Honorary Pallbearers will be her grandchildren, Derrick Velasquez, Shawn Velasquez, Damien Velasquez, Dr. Kendra Velasquez and Jennifer Owings. Arrangements are being handled by the caring professionals at the Noblin Funeral Service Belen Chapel, 418 W. Reinken Ave., (505)864-4448, where an online guest register is available at www.noblinfuneralservice.com.