Not very many people know me 8th I was Daniel lujan's eighth grade students and my first memory of him wasn't very pleasant because I thought he didn't like me very much because he was always so tough on me and it seemed like he was always picking at me and me I remember asking him one day why are you such a jerk to me. And he said something to me that will always be forever embedded in my silly brain . He told me if me pushing you to your fullest potential makes me a jerk then I guess I am guilty as charged. I remember going to his sister who was also my teacher and asked her the same question why is your brother so rough on me. And she told me he's rough on the ones that he sees something in you . That's why he's so rough on you because if he wasn't he doesn't care. I'm thinking back to it now I'm glad that he was. There will never be another teacher like Dan lujan or his sister Gloria Guerrero. My advice to anybody who reads this and if you're still in school? Treasure every moment and hang on to that wisdom and that discipline they try bestow on you because teachers like that will only come around once in a lifetime I'm 43 now and not one day goes by that I don't remember the life lessons that I was taught. So I'm going to say this and I know Mr lujan hated this. When he'd be trying to teach Spanish or French if you tried speaking a different language. go raibh d'anam ar dheis Dé it's Gaelic. For May your soul be in God's right hand. Thanks for everything Mr lujan. Your student Michael Ray Martinez

I just found out today that Dan has passed away. I met him when we were both students at Centennial High School. I caught up with him in 2016 on Facebook and learned that he had been a teacher. I can only imagine how fun his classroom must have been. 
I will remember him for his fantastic sense of humor and infectious laugh. Pueblo lost one of the good ones.

It’s been 30 years and I’m sure I’m probably not remembered . But Mr Lujan was my 8th grade teacher at Risley middle school .  When I first met him I thought well forgive me he’s kinda a jerk . And I told him that and his response to me was if not letting you Give up makes me a jerk then I am .  And if me believing in you that you have to much potential to let you give up makes me a jerk too then I’m sorry . And it would be those words that would get me probably through toughest year in my life . In high school I was faced with the choice to quit . But when I thought about it I heard the voice of Mr Dan Lujan . Saying don’t ever quit my sister and I believe in you  .  And I gutted it out and graduated.  In this day and age we have so many so called educators calling them selves teachers but one thing I can honestly say mr Lujan you were truly a grade A+ teacher . And it breaks my heart . That I never got to see you and tell you that . So I say Now thank you . Because I never would have had the strength nor the courage to press on the way I did. In life and in schooling . Just like your loving sister Mrs Gloria Guerrero. Whom I also owe deeply my gratitude. You were a true inspiration. And I'm sorry it took me this long.  But better late then never right lol . Good bye Mr Lujan and Thank you sincerely your former student  Spanish class name . Poncho Villa Aka Michael Ray Martinez class of 95 

Mr. Lujan was only my 8th grade Spanish teacher for one year. However in that year, him and I grew to be great friends. He had a wonderful passion for his students and could always make anyone laugh. One short school year but one lifetime of funny memories. You will sincerely be missed. Much love for the families. Thank you so much for a new language and a bunch of wonderful memories! 

To Israel, your eulogy was absolutely beautiful. It reminded me of things I had almost forgotten about Daniel, like how goofy and dramatic he was. I can see why he was so proud of you. The last time we talked, he went on about his fantastic nephew. 

Mr. Lujan's was my French teacher for four years and he was my friend for twelve more years after that.

When I was starting high school, I decided on a whim to take French instead of Spanish. It was one of the best decisions of my life. He was an incredible teacher, who made learning a language fun, even when doing traditionally boring stuff, like conjugating verbs. He was so lively, so fun, his sense of humor was so infectious. We had a million parties. He made the best jello cake and crepes. He loved to get us fully engaged in the French culture. I wish I could say I kept up with my French, because I haven’t, but he gave me all the tools.

We fought all the time but overall, he was one of the most supportive and considerate teachers I ever had. He wanted us to succeed and he wanted us to be proud of our Hispanic heritages.

Thank you for everything, Monsieur Lujan. I am so glad you were my teacher. I am so glad I knew you.

Dear Gloria,  Sam and family.  I am just so very sad hearing about Dan.  He was an incredible teacher and his passion of teaching and kids was evident every single day.  He had such a great sense of humor and wit.   He will be so missed by so many.   You are all in my prayers and you have my sympathy and the world will not be the same without Dan to brighten every day.   ((Hugs)) to you Gloria. Wish I were there in person. 

The world will be a little darker without your smile, wit, and laughter. Thank you for being an exceptional educator and human being who touched the lives of so many young people, myself included. You are loved and will be missed. Sincerest condolences to the family.

It was an honor to have worked with him and to be his friend.  Daniel was the best Spanish and French teacher.  He will be missed.  Sorry and comfort to the family.  Coach Cortez and Laura

My sincere condolences to the Family of Daniel Lujan, you are in my thoughts and prayers.  Dan was a wonderful friend, and an awesome teacher.  Dan was responsible for my nephew's success in Spanish class.  Joe earned A's and B's in his last year at Corwin (CIMS) with Daniel as his teacher.  He is back having difficulty with his Spanish class, so I give full and grateful credit to Daniel.

Please be comforted in the knowledge that Daniel is in the arms of our Loving Lord, Jesus Christ, and he is celebrating with his parents...We are all feeling the loss of this one of a kind gentleman, who brought nothing but beautiful, loving happiness to each one us,  We all feel blessed to have had him in our lives. May God bless you and bring you comfort during this difficult loss.

Today I said goodbye to the most wonderful teacher ever! He inspired me to continue French beyond high school...so much so, that I taught French to my elementary students over the years. There is a whole other generation of students whom have been impacted by his love and zeal for languages whom he never even met. I was able to bounce language teaching strategies off of him at any given time. I am forever grateful for the love of learning he fostered in me. 
Merci Monsieur Lujan, Daniel Lujan
~Terra "Karima"

Dear Lujan Family,

Words fall short of expressing my sorrow for your loss. I am deeply sorry and extremely saddened to hear about Danny’s passing.
I will alway remember Feliberto’s greeting to me when we were growing up as neighbors.  It was “Loretta, Loretta Young” now my friend it’s “Danny, Danny FOREVER Young.” 
Descansa en Paz Amigo Mìo🙏

My deepest and heartfelt condolences to the Lujan Family.  Dan and I shared many years of mutual enthusiasm for the teaching  and promotion of world languages.  His success in this area touched many  students, and  his outgoing friendliness and  willingness to try new ideas gave his classroom much impetus.  The mutual respect we had for each other is a memory I shall cherish forever.   Again, my sadness for his passing.

Dear Family Lujan:
Although never worked with him. Many times we meet at CCFLT conferences.
He always shone wherever it was.  I will always remember his happiness and positivism.
I am sure I will always remember him with a smile in my face.
My condolences to his family. We will miss him.
Meaestra. Trudy Wejebe McDowell
World Language Department Head Centennial High School
Spanish Teacher

Prayers of comfort for the Lujan/Guerrero families!  Dan was a great friend and educator, he will truly be missed.  Much love, Terri

Our thoughts and prayers are with  the Lujan family. Dan was a wonderful man and a great teacher. 

There will now be a huge void in the lives and hearts of all who have known and loved this precious, precious man. Dan, Dennis DeLeon and I became really good buddies back in high school. For two proud Bulldogs and this equally proud WILDCAT, it was the right combination for some fun and memorable times!!! Dan and I both became teachers and so, like many, we were able to maintain ties and our bond. I sooooo remember when he got that red sports car. One day, I saw it coming up the street and thought, "Wow! What a car! Who owns THAT baby?!?" And, as it got closer, I saw it was Dan! My next thought was, "How in the heck does he fit in that thing?!?!?" Some of our best times happened this time of year, as the 'Cat and 'Dog in each of us came out at its best, as we teased and cajoled each other about who was going to win the Bell. This went all the way back to our high school days. He was fiercely RED. I am fiercely BLUE and we let each other know it!!! We shared that humor only people who have taught teenagers for 35 years can have. But, we also shared love of family, friendships, our "calling" as teachers and our passion for it, and so many other beliefs we had about our faith, our city, and life in general. We recently got to work very closely on Frank Latino's school board campaign and shared common concerns over recent District fiascos. However, what I will remember most is his warmth and the love he had for everyone he cared about and, like me, his honesty and ability to be a straight-shooter and speak the truth. He was a gentle soul with a constitution of steel when it came to defending and standing for what he believed in and in fighting for those he loved. My prayers are with his beloved family, as I know your hearts are broken and your grief very real and deep. One day the tears of sadness will turn into tears of laughter, as you remember all he has given to you and countless others and you realize that he lives on in the legacy of your wonderful family. Peace.

I had to honor and pleasure of teaching with Dan at FHS. I never met another teacher who demonstrated so much passion and love for teaching, family, and friends. Dan was full of life and I loved being around him. I will never forget his laughter and smile. His legacy will continue to live on with his friends and family. He made me a better person. Dan was one of a kind! Forever in my heart! 

DEAR FAMILY,
It is with great sorrow to hear that your dear Brother has passed at such a young age.  I am sending Prayers to all of my cousins and hope and pray your grief is brief, but your memories are forever.

Your cousin,

Michael Lujan, son of Agapito Lujan

Monsieur Lujan was one of my absolute favorite teachers at East. He was easy to laugh with, and his passion for world languages was evident. I had the great pleasure of taking French from him. I kept in touch with him over Facebook after I graduated and when I would see him in person, it was always a delight. He always encouraged my faith, and I know he is in a much better place now. Praying for those grieving now. You will be greatly missed, Lujan! 

My condolences to the family of Mr. Lujan. I had the privilege of having Spanish class with Mr. Lujan at Risley Middle School. He was such a fun man to be around and great teacher. You will be missed.

My daughter,  Jaylene Rivera had the opportunity to be Mr. Lujan's student last year.  He was so encouraging to her, not only for school, but encouraged her in competitive cheerleading. He was an inspiration. She was devistated by his passing.  They grew a bond together. She loved to go in before school and after school to help him. I, as a parent appreciate his student commitment. I come from a long family of educators. (Rosales family).  He had a heart of gold. Loved sending him starbucks!. My love and prayers to his family and friends. Mr. Lujan you will be missed dearly.

My condolences to Señor Lujans family. He was an extraordinary  person and an excellent teacher. 

Mr. Lujan.... When I heard the news of your passing, I was in a state of disbelief. I still cannot believe you are not here on this earth. I have this exception that you are super human and nothing should happen to you.... which I know is something only one can dream. I'll never forget the first time I met you, when you became my Spanish/French teacher in the 6th grade. From there, you saw me grow up and I had the privilege of having you as my teacher, all the way to my senor year in high school. Mr. Lujan, not only were you my favorite teacher but also a dear friend. You always made me laugh, cry, mad...all the emotions I believe one can feel. But of course that was out of caring and love. Your class room was a safe haven. A place where it was like stepping into a different world. The culture you taught, the food we tasted, the music we listened to; all in which I'll never forget and will always cherish. All the lives you touched can speak for hours about how great of memories they have with you, which proves how great and kind hearted you are. Mr. Lujan, you are and will always have a special place in my heart. Heaven definitely gained an angel! Until we meet again... adios...au revior monsieur/senor Lujan. You will be deeply missed!

You were my best friend at Freed and Centennial.   I will always remember the good times cheering for Centennial at all the games in the 1970s.  We would drive the Victory Bell around Pueblo in my Dad's truck, long before the game became commercialized.  You were much smarter than I was and I always looked up to you regarding academics.  You were kind, funny and always bought me an extra burger at McDonalds when we would leave campus in your maroon-colored car.  I drank too much at Gloria's wedding and you drove me home.  I always thought of you and hoped I would run into you at the many Bell Games.   God-Speed Danny.  In Heaven, the Bell Always Rings Red!  

 SENIOR YELL 1-9-7-6    1-9-7-6   RIGHT ON SENIORS1

Dennis DeLeon
Lakewood, Colorado

To Mr. Lujan's family - I just want to say that both my daughter's were blessed to be students of Mr. Lujan's at East High School.  They absolutely loved him as a teacher and his class.  Dan opened their eyes to so many things and all the passions that he had particularly in his French class.  He will be so missed by so many but as my youngest daughter told me he was my most favorite teacher ever.  God Bless you all during this difficult time.

Mr. Lujan was always one of my favorite teachers.  The laughter we shared, the songs we sang, the food we made.......I will never forget these and many other great memories.  My husband also had the privilege of teaching with Mr. Lujan at East High School.  He was a blessing to so many people and he will be missed.   To his family members, my heart is saddened by your loss and my thoughts and prayers are with you.  

Each of us, Florence High School Alumni, were so blessed by Mr./Senor/Monsieur Lujan. Thank you dear one for enriching our lives. Looking forward to a reunion in Heaven one day.

I have fond memories of Mr. Lujan from high school French class. He made learning fun and we always had a good time in his class. He was so full of life and had such a caring spirit about him. He was an influential teacher and he will be missed by many. May he Rest In Peace. Heaven gained a beautiful angel!

I was never lucky enough to have Mr. Lujan as a teacher in high school; however, I was blessed with his friendship in later years. He was an amazing man with a wonderful heart and lovely sense of humor. He always made me smile and we helped each other through the pain of losing our moms. Very sad not to have his wit and wisdom in my daily life, though his memory will always burn bright. God bless you Mr. Lujan, thank you for everything 💗

Dan and I taught at Florence High School.  His love of teaching and connections with his students was evidence that he was a born educator.  The world is a better place because of his influence.  My condolences to all who loved him.


I had the pleasure of meeting Dan 39 years ago when we both started our student teaching at South High. From day one it was obvious that he was a gifted and beloved teacher. We would grade papers together during our planning period and discuss our day and any problems we may have encountered as well as celebrations.   We went on to teach night school together and would go to Taffy's to get a cinnamon sucker for Dan , sit in our cars and talk about our goals and dreams and life as teachers.  When I lost my father Dan said wonderful things to help me cope. I will never forget his bright smile, is great sense of humor, his compassion for his students and teaching, and the love of his beautiful family. I am very devastated for you all and ask that the Lord wrap you in His embrace.   We are blessed by having him travel with us on our paths. May you be comforted by your beautiful memories. Sincerely, Susie

My deepest condolences to the family of Mr Lujan. He was an amazing teacher and friend. He will be greatly missed. 

Mass of the Resurrection

Daniel was preceded in death by his mother and father, Corina and Feliberto Lujan 
and his cherished great nephew, Zane Lujan.  

He is survived by his treasured siblings, Virginia Lujan, Dorothy VanBuskirk, Jerry (Jane) Lujan, Leonor Lujan, Jesse (Kathy) Lujan and Gloria (Sam) Guerrero;
precious nephews, great nephews, nieces, and great nieces.

OBITUARY

Daniel "Chunkle" Arsenio Lujan

19 January, 1958 – 14 October, 2018

T.G. McCarthy Funeral Home

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