Maria Rita Peña, 90, passed away on October 17, 2022. Born on April 12, 1932 in San Benito, Texas to Eugenio Sanchez and Maria Rivera. Maria live in San Benito and Lamesa Texas in her young life, and later moved to Colorado. She resided for a time in Wiggins before settling down in Eaton Colorado. On July 2, 1966 Maria and Florencio “Lencho” Peña were married in Greeley, Colorado at Our Lady of Peace.
Maria was a hard worker, she took care of her younger siblings as a child and in her teen years; she was a migrant worker, traveling with her father to work on farms in Texas and Colorado. Later in life, she did custodial work for NCMC and after that she did the same at UNC for 20 years. In retirement, Maria worked part-time as a caretaker in Eaton, Colorado. Maria was a member of Our Lady of Peace for almost 67 years. She loved to crochet blankets, hats, table runners and baby clothes for her entire family. She loved to cook for her family and to bake. In all, Maria loved to give, especially to her family and friends. Her favorite music was Tejano music. Maria expressed her caring nature with little things like saying “have you eaten?” and “Puro pedo”.
Maria is survived in life by her Sons; Carlos Peña, Flor Peña, Sisters; Carmen Sanchez Orozco, Juanita Sanchez-Rodriguez, Lily Sanchez-Casarez, Florestella Sanchez-Ogeda, Grandchildren; Jessica Marie Peña-Rodriguez, Lindsay Maria Peña, Destini Marie Peña, Marissa Kristal Peña, Klarissa Marie Peña, Great-Grandchildren; Adrik Rodriguez, Aliana Rodriguez, Desmond Peña and her beloved Golden Retriever; Aspen.
Maria is preceded in death by her Husband; Florencio “Lencho” Peña, Parents; Eugenio and Maria Sanchez, Son; Jessie Peña, Brothers; Jessie Iglesias, Jose Iglesias and Eugenio Sanchez, Jr.
