It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of a beloved father, grandfather, teacher, coach, mentor and an all-around inspiration. Erik William Melgoza, 54, passed away Jan. 4, 2023.

Erik came into the world on Sept. 6, 1968, he was the son of Fred William Melgoza.

After he graduated Eads High School, he went on to obtain his Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees from Adams State College.

Anyone who knew him knew him to be compassionate, and he inspired others to be their best selves.  He best demonstrated this through the work he did coaching sports. It did not matter if you were on his team or an opponent, he took great pride in giving guidance to anyone who sought it.

In 2017, he led the Lamar Lady Savage basketball team to win the Colorado State Championship. Always in pursuit of new challenges, Erik became the Athletic Director with Alamosa High School in 2018. He later took up coaching again for the girls basketball team there.

Erik was a member of CHSAA and CHSCA. He held many positions during his career, including Secretary, Vice President, and he was slated to be the incoming president of CHSCA.

He influenced countless lives through his everyday acts and his passing leaves the world a little dimmer than it was when he was with us. He leaves an enduring legacy of faith, compassion and integrity that will carry on for decades to come.

Coach Melgoza has an amazing overall coaching record of over 200 wins.

On the rare occasion when Erik wasn't coaching or helping others, he enjoyed spending time on his San Luis Valley ranch.

Of the many accomplishments Erik had, his greatest sense of pride came from his children and grandchildren. He cherished the time he spent with them.

His legacy will live on through his children Blayze (Lisa) Melgoza of Melissa, Texas; daughters Jordan (Jeremy) Mallard of Hasty, Colo.; Emily Melgoza of Alamosa, Colo.; grandchildren Deacon Mallard, Tre Mallard, Emma Mallard, J.J. Mallard, father Fred Melgoza of Alamosa, Colo.; brothers Troy Melgoza of Pueblo, Colo.; Kelly (Christa) Melgoza of Lamar, Colo.; Damian (Camie) Melgoza of Gove, Kan.; Derek Melgoza of Cortez, Colo. He is also survived by numerous extended family members, friends, and his beloved students and student-athletes.

Funeral Service will be held on Sunday, Jan. 15, 2023, at 2 p.m. at the Alamosa High School Gymnasium.

The care of arrangements has been entrusted to Romero Funeral Home of Alamosa.