LA JARA — Jake Valdez, 29, passed away at the Conejos County Hospital, while surrounded by his loving family on Friday, Feb. 28.

He was born on Jan. 16, 1991 in Alamosa, to Russell and Beverly Valdez of rural La Jara.

He is survived by his parents; his sister, Lisa of Boise, Idaho; grandfather, Alex Valdez of Lakewood, and numerous uncles, aunts, cousins and friends.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Paul; maternal grandparents, Joe T. and Priscilla Medina; as well as paternal grandmother, Ann Valdez.

He was born with a condition called “vanishing white matter disease” (VWM), a progressive and degenerative genetic disease that affected his brain. His brother, Paul, died from the same disease 14 years ago.

Jake enjoyed art projects and would spend countless hours drawing and painting articulate pictures. He was an avid sports fan, especially of the Denver Broncos and Colorado Rockies.

His favorite pastime was spending quality time joking with his family, playing cards and board games.

He attended school in Sanford up until the 11th grade. He was quite the charmer. Most days he would sing to the class his favorite song “You are my sunshine.”

He would draw pictures all day and would distribute them to his classmates. Jake cherished the friends he made during the time he attended school in Sanford.

Jake had a quick wit, an exceptional work ethic, and was loved by all who knew him. A young man with a Golden Soul is no longer suffering on this earth.

A rosary and wake service will be held on Sunday, March 1, at 7 p.m. at St. Joseph’s Parish in Capulin.

A mass of the resurrection will be held on Monday, March 2, at 10 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Parish with final internment at the Capulin Cemetery after the mass.

In lieu of flowers, the family would ask you to make a contribution to Hospice Del Valle at 514 Main Street, Alamosa.

Romero’s Funeral Home in Alamosa is in care of the arrangements.