Francisco Elizalde

Francisco Elizalde, 88, passed away peacefully on June 15, 2025, in Loveland CO. He was born to Juan Elizalde and Paula Rodela on August 2, 1936, in Laredo Texas.

Francisco (Frank, Pancho) came to CO with his brother Rudy and 4 friends, looking for work. They found work in a migrant camp building cabins, making the camp bigger. Since Francisco was only 12 years old, he wasn't allowed to work so he cooked for everyone. As he got older, he and his brother worked construction. They built JAX Surplus in Fort Collins. At 23 years old, he began working at the Dreher Pickle Factory planting pickles until he advanced his position. He also continued working on construction at various locations. His pride was when he worked at Poudre 1 School District. He worked as a custodian, to maintenance, to landscaping. The school district sends him to school in Denver to be a small engine mechanic which became his dream job.

Francisco was a self taught artist who could draw anything. He also was a musician who played the organ, piano, harmonica, accordion and his favorite was his guitar. He volunteered playing for Jail Ministry at Larimer County Jail. He did not know how to read music, but he was able to play by ear.

Francisco is survived by his wife of 68 years Ofelia Garza Elizalde, of Loveland CO; daughters Martha Hense (Moe) of Woodlake CA, Celia Mendez of Fort Collins CO, Eva Elizalde of Windsor CO, Maria Gonzalez (Jim) of Fort Collins CO, Laura Hernandez-Sanchez (Roberto) of Fort Collins CO, Dina Elizalde-Mahomes (Jimmy) of Denver CO; 13 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren and 4 great, great grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in passing by his brothers Rodolfo and Esequiel Hugo; sister Armandina; great grandsons Felix Tate, Elijah Alexander and the son he never had, his nephew Rodolfo Jesus Elizalde.

Francisco Elizalde preplanned his own last wishes. To honor his wishes there will be no funeral services.