Felipe "Don" Donaldo Cruz

Our beloved Don went home to be with the Lord on November 28, 2024. He left behind not only all of his loved ones, but an immeasurable number of memories to all that knew him. Don was born to Nick and Emma Cruz in Los Pinos, New Mexico on April 4, 1941, but had the pleasure and joy of growing up in Alamosa, Colorado with eight of his siblings. Don was born to Nick and Emma Cruz in Los Pinos, New Mexico on April 4, 1941, but had the pleasure and joy of growing up in Alamosa, Colorado with eight of his siblings. Don was forced to grow up fast, like most in that era, but as soon as he met Karen Ortega, he knew life was forever changed. Don and Karen were inseparable from the beginning. Even a Catholic school in New Mexico couldn't keep them apart, it only strengthened their love and dedication to each other. Throughout the years they would welcome four children to their family with love and excitement; Jeffrey, Valorie, Johnny and Brian. In the early years, Don and Karen lived in the mountains between Durango and Silverton where he had the thrilling position of clearing mountain passes like... Wolf Creek and The Million Dollar Highway. The story's Don would tell we're not only scary but exciting. Eventually, they moved back to their beloved Alamosa where they welcomed and raised four children: Jeffrey, Valorie, Johnny and Brian. Don was presented with opportunity to become a lineman, which he took very seriously and studied endlessly for. He was not only grateful but loved being a lineman throughout Alamosa and eventually the Denver area; until his retirement. Don was very active and loved being outside. Whether it be camping, fishing, snow skiing, water skiing, bowling or dancing. Oh, how Don was known for his dancing! Everyone, family or friend, wanted the chance to dance with Don. Although spending most of his life in The Valley, Don and Karen moved into Denver where their children and grandchildren soon followed, but Alamosa never left his heart. Don and Karen were able to finish out amazing careers and establish themselves as city folk. Don quickly found new places to spend his time- like Blackhawk, GI Forum, The Columbine with Mel every Friday and many other fun places. Although a small-town boy, he adapted to Denver well and was often found calmly "cruising" the busy streets of Denver with his windows down. Once retirement came, Don was able to spend his time with Karen, friends and family. They now enjoyed more time with their grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Don always stayed busy whether out and about or tinkering in his garage. Life started to slow down, but that didn't stop him from enjoying his Sunday morning Mexican music, dancing and laughing at all the family gatherings, and appreciating the endless visits from friends and family. He would say "time sure gets us, but I'm still going, even if slower". The last several years Don spent all of his time by Karens side. He played a major role in her care and was there for her day and night, but not without some spicy words here and there. Ultimately, he wouldn't have her anywhere else but with him, no matter how hard it was. When the time came that Karen needed to be moved, he was still there by her side every day. He became a regular patron of the nursing home, stayed with her for hours, and would call multiple times a day to check in on her. The bond they shared was strong and irreplaceable. Don showed us a side most had never seen, a side filled with tenderness, affection and patience, all the way until the end. Don has proven to be a huge part of some many lives, offering many memories, whether good, bad or great, they are now ours to keep and treasure. Don was a force to be reckoned with, he was a spirited man filled with love, charisma and charm. All that knew him, truly loved him. Saying "goodbye" is always too soon, but we have comfort knowing you are in a better place now Pompo, where the slot machines run loose and the Mexican and Honky Tonk music never stops. You're always with us and will never be forgotten... Until we meet again!

Felipe "Don" Donaldo Cruz

April 4, 1941 - November 28, 2024