Estefanita A. Salazar

Estefanita Salazar, 98, formerly of Greeley, CO passed away peacefully at the Good Samaritan Loveland Village, on Saturday, May 21, 2011 with her family at her side. Estefanita was born on September 24, 1912, in Rociada, NM to Leandro and Bersabel (Barela) Aragon. After the death of her parents, she was raised by her Grandpa Barela, and her aunt and uncle. She grew up on a farm and enjoyed animals especially horses. As a young woman Estefanita, moved to Las Vegas, NM and took a job as a nanny for a local doctor. On May 27, 1946 she married Higinio Salazar at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Sapello, NM. Estefanita and Higinio moved to Greeley and started their family. Estefanita was a homemaker and an avid gardener. Estefanita and Higinio were founding members of Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church in Greeley. She was active in many church functions including the Altar and Rosary Society, helping with catechism classes, the Holy Family Monthly Home Visits and cleaning the church. Estefanita’s love for children moved her and her husband to become foster parents, and they welcomed many children in need into their home over the years. She loved the company of her family, especially her grandchildren and she was always happy to welcome a new baby into the family. She is survived by a son, Chris and wife Kerri Salazar of Greeley; a son in law, Santiago Santillan of Loveland; seven grandchildren, Alexandria, Bernie, Lucinda, Christina, Rebecca, Samantha and Mariah; 19 great grandchildren; three great-great grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; and her wonderful care givers at Good Samaritan in Loveland. Estefanita is preceded in death by her husband, Higinio; two daughters, Consuelo Lucille and Dolores Ursula; parents; and brother, Jose. Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. Monday, May 30, 2011 followed by Recitation of The Rosary at 7 p.m. at Adamson Chapel. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, May 31, 2011 at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 1730 West 12th Street Loveland. Interment will be at Sunset Memorial Gardens in Greeley.