John Mondragon Jr., 72, of Greeley, passed away Tuesday, September 21, 2021 at Poudre Valley Hospital in Fort Collins. He was born November 26, 1948 in Greeley to Adelaide Arguello and John Mondragon Sr.
John was raised in Greeley. He attended Greeley Central High School. In 1972 he married Nancy Ornelas in Greeley, where they raised a wonderful family. They have shared more than 57 years together. He was a drywall finisher with his brothers for over 40 years and played softball for many years. He was an avid sports fan. If it was a sport, he followed it. He especially enjoyed watching the Denver Broncos where he was a season ticket holder since 1966. He remembered statistics for everything and people often wondered how he knew so much.
John was a family man. He loved visiting with his brothers and was saddened at the loss of all of them. He lived for his wife, children and grandchildren. Through multiple illnesses, he fought through the pain. He was at every practice, game, concert, ER visit, and various after-school activities no matter how small. He was a father figure to countless others, related or not. It was rare to see John without a grandson in tow and there was never a dull moment at his house. Everyone knew John or "Bampo" as he was called by his six grandsons. He gave a ride to anyone who needed it, no matter what time. A person could see his truck coming up the street and everyone knew it was him.
John loved hosting his annual picnic on the 4th of July. He looked forward to it every year. Everyone was invited. He loved telling funny stories and listening to music while everyone enjoyed the food and fireworks. He cherished the simple things in life such as sitting outside with his wife just watching the cars go by, or going out to eat at Village Inn or Farmer's. John found enjoyment in just taking a drive (nowhere in particular) and stopping for an ice cream or discovering a new location. John was rich with love and wisdom. He accepted everyone and anyone.
He was the picture of what a husband, dad and grandpa should be. His absence is devastating to anyone who knew him.
John is survived by his wife, Nancy of Greeley; daughter, Nikki (David) Rivera of Greeley; son, JJ Mondragon (Pam); grandchildren, Daxton and David Rivera Jr. and Kollin, Diego, Elijah and Asa Mondragon and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends he considered family. Childhood friends, softball teammates, and Broncos tailgate buddies.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Sister, Bertha Freed, Brothers, Steve, Robert, Tom, and Joe and Goddaughter, Sherelle Escobedo.
Mass of Christian Burial will be at 9:30 a.m. Thursday, September 30, 2021 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, 915 12th Street, Greeley, Colorado.
