Miguel Mendez was one of my best friends, but before that, he was the first person I ever supervised when we worked for CCLP. Striving for strict professionalism, I initially tried to limit our time hanging outside of work. But Miguel was the type of person who anyone would be lucky to have in their life, and after our first overnight work trip, we quickly became close friends. 
Although Miguel and I both parted for other jobs, our friendship endured. We would get together frequently, and when that wasn’t possible because of the pandemic, we would play Call of Duty nearly every night. He was a helluva teammate.
There is a lot that I’ll remember about Miguel: his contagious laugh and mischievous grin, ceaseless good nature, ability to quote the perfect Kanye lyric at just the right time; his creativity and passion for social justice, his love for his family and friends, his love for his community. But perhaps what I’ll remember most is how he treated others. 
Miguel worked closely with people experiencing crisis, people experiencing poverty, people experiencing the worst day of their lives. He engaged everyone-- and I mean everyone-- with love, patience, and what seemed like unconditional empathy. It was awe-inspiring to witness, and in that sense, I’ve tried to be more like Miguel in my own work and life. 
It is no exaggeration to say that Miguel’s advocacy helped improve the lives of tens of thousands of Coloradans, and his daily interactions left a profound impact on virtually everyone he met.
My relationship with Miguel began as a supervisor, grew to become a mentorship, a friendship, and ultimately, I loved him like one loves a younger brother. 
I miss you, Miguel, and I’ll keep your memory and the lessons you taught me in my heart for the remainder of my life. Rest easy, my friend

Celebrating the life of a wonderful young man and mourning his passing with you.

The staff at Ray E. Kilmer Elementary School

Miguel was like the older brother I never had and I'm dearly going to miss our phone calls we would have to catch up. I'm so glad we met in college and was able to witness his passion swell into action. Adiós mi hermano. 

I’ll never forget the times we hung out the things we talked about. Long nights playing forknife lol it’s crazy how we bonded in just one summer, and talked everyday since you knew and know everything about me. Having someone I could count on and go to was all i needed and you were the dopest human to have for support, i couldn’t have been luckier to have a cousin/best friend like you. One day we didn’t talk and we messaged each other  later that night at the same time saying how weird it was to not talk at all that day. I will miss our daily chats and late night forknife. Can’t wait to see you again! 

Miguel introduces himself and talks about his grandfather and family and driving force. Recorded for Colorado Center on Law and Policy where he worked in 2020 as a public interest fellow.  Very poignant message to the world on this day:

5 minute video. Cut and paste in browser: 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=3AN77rDzZYA


Thank you for everything you’ve done for me Miguel I always saw you as another older brother. I love you so much all those times we’ve played basketball when you lived with me and we would have an amazing time and just laugh together with Cesar and David. You were such a kind hearted person I’ll forever miss you watch over us I know you’ll be taking good care of us. 

I hope we meet and smile like this again one day. 

Truthfully, Miguel and I were not close friends, but we became friendly acquaintances from seeing each other around campus in college.  What I remember most is his smile; so warm and genuine. He brightened every space he entered and made everyone feel seen and heard. Our interactions were few in comparison to many, but they made a beautiful impact. A reminder to treat others with kindness and love and to spread joy because it's contagious. Im so grateful I knew him even a little and I'm so sorry I can't come to the memorial and offer my condolences in person. I can't imagine the pain and shock you're all going through. I'll be lighting a candle at home on Sunday to honor him with you in spirit.  May you all find peace in this difficult transition, I know he's with you ❤ 

Miguel was such a wonderful young man. I was the assistant coach for the boys soccer team at Lewis-Palmer and the Head Coach of the girls team. Miguel was a leader and mentor too many of the young players for the boys team. He was my Team Manager for the girls program. His assistance to me and the girls was invaluable. Always willing to help in any way, shape or need. I am saddened by his untimely passing and know he will be watching over all of us that knew him. May God bless you during this difficult time and know heaven has welcomed a new Angel.
Joe Martin
Head Coach, Lewis-Palmer Girls Soccer 2010-2016

Miguel is such a ray of light when he walks into a room. He’s such a kind, funny, smart, and generous person. He always made sure that others were doing well and would make sure to do anything to make sure they were okay. 

I am so grateful and honored to have known him. My favorite memories of him are when we went to Oaxaca together, drinking mezcal with everyone and having a great time. 

He will be missed dearly, but please know that he lives on in our hearts. 

Here’s a video of Miguel that captures his advocacy and passion. 

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=3AN77rDzZYA


Colorado Center on Law and Policy had the privilege of hosting Miguel as a Colorado College policy fellow. Miguel‘s talent and passion to advance public interest law was evident. We were so grateful to have known and worked with him. To say we are deeply saddened by this tragic loss  is an understatement. With much sympathies, Tiffani Lennon, CCLP

OBITUARY

Miguel Mendez Villalpando

July 9, 1997 – July 16, 2022

Olinger Andrews Caldwell Gibson Chapel

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