Charles Barela

Born in New Mexico on April 10, 1946, to Rita and Evangelisto “E.V.” Barela, Charles attended Evans High School before honorably serving in the United States Army, stationed in Baumholder, Germany. In 1967, he married Lillian Romero, beginning a partnership that would last 58 years.

After pursuing an accounting degree, Charles began a distinguished career as a civil servant for the United States Postal Service, holding a variety of positions. He enjoyed working with his hands, was a jack of all trades, and could often be found in the garage or fixing things around the house. Charles cherished time with family, particularly with his grandchildren. A devoted and engaged grandfather, he was a fixture at his grandchildren's baseball games, choir and theater performances. He was a constant source of support and always present in his children’s and grandchildren’s lives with whom he shared his love of hunting and fishing.

Charles is survived by his wife, Lillian; children Charles (Janette), Brenda (Rick), and Desiree; brother Gilbert Barela (Irene); and sister Vera Sylvester. He is beloved by his grandchildren: Nicole (Justin), Taylor (Brett), Kellen, Kyle, Kinsey, Catalina, and Allison; and three great-grandchildren: Isaiah, Elias, and Wesley. He was preceded in death by his parents Rita and E.V. Barela; sister Esther Castillo; brother Adolph Barela; and daughter Bernadette “Wendy” Duran.

His legacy lives on through the values he instilled in his family and the lives he touched throughout his lifetime. His love for his family will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him.

A rosary service will be held on September 25, 2025, at 6:00pm at Howe Mortuary, 439 Coffman Street, Longmont, CO. The Funeral Mass will take place on September 26, 2025, at 10 am at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 323 Collyer Street, Longmont, CO, followed by the burial with military honors at Mountain View Cemetery, 620 11th Ave., Longmont, CO, at 11 am.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the National Kidney Foundation in Charles' memory.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.howemortuary.com for the Barela family.