Frances Maria Ballesteros

Born April 2, 1942, in Mitchell, Nebraska, to Rosendo and Sofia Sabala, Frances moved to Colorado Springs in 1972, where she built a vibrant life filled with family, work, and music.

She worked as a nurse’s aide, Spanish teacher and lead cashier at Penrose Hospital, but her true passion was music. Frances began her career playing saxophone with “Los Tejanos,” then joined Colorado Springs’ premier band, “Los Latinos,” where she played saxophone and later became the lead vocalist. The band performed at prestigious events across multiple states. She proudly taught her son, John, the saxophone, and he joined “Los Latinos” alongside her—a highlight she cherished. She concluded her musical journey with her son’s band, “La Raza Unida.”

Frances loved performing, saying it brought her joy through meeting wonderful people. Known for her warm, friendly nature, she was a familiar face in the community; people often approached her to say hello, a testament to her approachable and loving spirit. Above all, she was a devoted mother of six and doting grandmother whose family was her greatest pride.

Preceded in death by her husband, Leonel Ballesteros; son, Roy Ballesteros; granddaughter, Angelita Montaño; grandson, Dennis Cote; great-grandson, Xavier Padilla; great-granddaughter, Freya Ballesteros; and parents, Rosendo and Sofia Sabala.

Frances is survived by her children: John Ballesteros (Christine), Rudy Ballesteros, Alfred Ballesteros, Pammy Ballesteros (Augustine), and Tammy Soden (Robert); daughter-in-law, Kristel (Roy) Ballesteros; her siblings: Lupe Torres, Joe Sabala (Rose), and Catalina Ruiz; along with 29 grandchildren, 36 great-grandchildren, 9 great-great-grandchildren, and a large extended family.

She will be remembered as a legend in music and in the hearts of all who knew her.