Joseph F Tella

Known as “Joe,” he was born to Tom and Mary Tella on Jan. 14, 1951, in Cañon City. The Tella family moved to Durango in 1953. Mr. Tella was born with Down syndrome and attended special education classes at Mason Elementary School.

“Mrs. Roberta Barr was principal, and she was wonderful at loving and accepting all students,” his family said.

Mr. Tella was involved at the Sheltered Workshop here until he moved to Boulder and Longmont in 1977, where he was involved with People First, which offers personalized support and services for adults with developmental disabilities.

Mr. Tella loved Lawrence Welk and big-band music.

“He never missed an episode of Lawrence Welk and could often be found sitting in his rocking chair with a conductor’s baton leading right along,” his family said. “Joe spent hours a day playing old records and conducting with his baton.”

Many members of his family spoke of Mr. Tella’s kindness and gentleness.

“I believe that even though Joe was handicapped all of his life, he served God’s purpose in bringing love, caring and joy into the lives of those who knew and cared for him,” his brother, Tom Tella II, wrote. “I thank God knowing his hardships are over, and for the first time he is freed from his handicap and is experiencing eternal life in the presence of God.”

Mr. Tella is survived by his father and mother, Tom and Mary Tella, of Durango; brother, Tom Tella II, of Plano, Texas; two nieces and one nephew; one great-niece; and numerous cousins.

Cremation will occur. Memorial services will be held in Longmont and Durango at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the Tella family asks to be held in friends’ prayers.

Memorial to be held at Mount Hope Luthern Church, 1345 South Broadway Boulder, Colorado on Thursday, May 19th at 4 pm.