Maria Elena Buchalla, of Berthoud, passed away peacefully on May 18, 2017 at her home in Berthoud, Colorado. She was 61.Maria Elena was born June 6, 1955 in McAllen, Texas, to Nazario and Maria (Murillo) Benavides. She was raised in McAllen and received her high school diploma from McAllen High School.Maria Elena met the love of her life, John Buchalla, and in 1997 moved from her home town of McAllen, TX, to Berthoud, CO to start a life together with John. John and Maria Elena were married on July 17, 1998.Maria Elena worked as a certified massage therapist for many years. She was a member of Summit Four Square Church in Berthoud, and enjoyed taking care of the garden and landscaping around her home in Berthoud.She was preceded in death by her parents.Maria Elena is survived by her husband, John Buchalla; and her three sisters, Mary Jane Lett, Prajedes Taylor, and Sara Martinez.A Graveside service will be held at 2:30 PM, Tuesday, May 23, 2017 at Longmont Mountain View Cemetery. Please visit www.ahlbergfuneralchapel.com to share condolence with the family.
