Rafael H Mendez

Rafael Hernandez Mendez, 80, passed away peacefully from this life, in the presence of loving family members by his side, on January 2, 2013, at Collier Hospice Center in Wheat Ridge, CO. He has now joined his beloved parents Jesus Mendez Rivera and Andrea Hernandez Villa, and brother Marcelino Mendez, who preceded him in death.

He was born in Guanajuato, Mexico on October 10, 1932, and was raised in Mexico City, Mexico. He was an accomplished bicycle racer as a young man and remained athletic throughout his life. Rafael fulfilled his dream of coming to the United States in 1956 and was proud to have earned his citizenship in 1965.

Rafael was a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, and an active participant of The Longmont Senior Center, where he spent time with his many friends playing pool, singing with the choir, and dancing. He also enjoyed playing cards with his friends and fishing. His presence will be missed by many.

He is the father of: Elena (Bob) Campbell, Monica (Aurelio) DeSantiago, Rebecca Werren, Martin (Ginger) Mendez, and Lisa (Todd) Boyer; he leaves behind 11 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren, with another one on the way. His brothers are: Felipe (Eleanor) Mendez, and Benito (Margarita) Mendez, and his sisters are Luz Mendez and Josepha Mendez, all of Mexico City, Mexico.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, January 6, 2013 at Howe Mortuary from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., followed by Recitation of the Rosary. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, January 7, 2013 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church. Burial will follow at Longmont Mountain View Cemetery.