Porfirio S. Barela

Porfirio “Paul” Barela was truly an exceptional person. Radiating love and kindness, Paul was above all a family man. He spent each of his 92 years showering those precious to him with endless love, generosity and patience. His loss is felt profoundly. Born in Vadito, New Mexico in 1931 to parents, Teofilo and Cirila Barela, Paul was the second youngest of 10 siblings. He graduated from Penasco High School in 1951 and soon after enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He honorably served his country from 1952-1960 earning the rank of Corporal. Paul was married to the love of his life, Maureen for 68 years after meeting in Taos, New Mexico in 1954. He said it was love at first sight. They married soon after and settled in Pueblo, Colorado. He was a devoted and loving husband. He was her rock. Paul found his most cherished role when he became a father. He and Maureen lovingly raised five children. He was a dedicated father and enjoyed sharing experiences with his children. He sought to make his children feel safe and protected. His love for them was boundless. Paul was the most incredible grandpa. He had a gift for connecting with his grandchildren and later his great grandchildren. He wasn’t afraid to get down in the dirt to show you a rollie pollie. He was the grandpa who would covertly slip you some cash as you hugged him goodbye. He was faithfully there for each of us. The loss we feel is unfathomable, but we are grateful for the precious time we had with him. Paul was known for being as hardworking and industrious as he was savvy. He worked for CF&l in Pueblo, Colorado for 43 years before retiring in 1996. He was passionate about providing for his family and worked hard to create passive income through smart investments. In retirement he enjoyed repairing and reselling appliances to keep himself busy, when he wasn’t cheering for his Broncos. He was also a faithful member and deacon at the Seventh-Day Adventist Church for many years. Porfirio will be remembered for his kind smile and generous heart. We couldn’t have asked for a better husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather, and will miss him always. He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings and eldest daughter Debe, and is survived by his beloved wife Maureen, remaining four children; Paul, Laurie (Glenn), Steven (Suki), Deanna, and six grandchildren; Paul Jr. (Nina), Nicole, Michael (Diana), Anna (RJ), Chelsea (Eric), Mathew, and seven great grandchildren; Layla, Zoe, Zion, Leo, Analylah, Allyson, and Damian.

Porfirio S. Barela

November 30, 1931 - December 8, 2023