Virginia Bonicelli

Virginia was born on February 11, 1923, in Walsenburg, CO, the daughter of Elvira and Andrew Argiletti. She joined older brother, Lawrence. The Argilettis owned the flour mill in Walsenburg, and while growing up both Virginia and Lawrence worked at the mill with their parents.

Virginia graduated from St. Mary’s High School in Walsenburg, but at the age of 16, she attended a dance where she met a handsome young member of the band, Zel Bonicelli, who was 6 years older than she. They were not allowed to go on dates unaccompanied, so her best high school friend, Olga, or her mom always went with them. After high school, Virginia worked at the local soda fountain, a job she really enjoyed.

Zel joined the Army when WWII broke out, but he sent most of his pay back home to Virginia to save for him. They were married on October 3, 1946, and shortly thereafter they moved to Denver together with Virginia’s parents. Their son, Larry, was born on August 10, 1946, and needless to say he was her pride and joy. About two years later they moved to a home they had built on Osceola Street where they lived they rest of their lives. Virginia was a devoted wife and mother who kept her home immaculate.

Virginia enjoyed regular game nights with a special group of longtime friends, and she was involved with several groups at St. Dominick’s Catholic Church. She also enjoyed spending time with family in Walsenburg and Chicago. They took trips to Las Vegas, and as they grew older, they especially enjoyed outings to Central City.

Virginia was thrilled when Larry finally got married, and her love just overflowed when her two grandsons were born. If you knew Virginia, you knew all about Michael and David! She loved babysitting them while Larry and Ellie went to Bronco games, and she enjoyed attending their various activities and concerts.

After nearly 67 years of marriage, Zel passed away, and Virginia’s heart was broken. She didn’t have the will to live without him, and she passed away three months to the day after he died. We surely miss both of them!