Jake Vallejo

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Jake Vallejo, who passed away at home on Friday, June 26, 2026, at the age of 82.

Jake was a devoted husband, loving father, cherished grandfather, and loyal friend whose kindness, strength, and generous spirit touched the lives of all who knew him. He was a man of integrity, compassion, and quiet wisdom, always willing to lend a helping hand or offer words of encouragement.

Jake attended and graduated from St. Mary’s Catholic High School in Walsenburg, Colorado. He played football and basketball for the St. Mary’s High School Crusaders. He proudly wore the number 24 and carried his love of sports throughout his life. After graduation, Jake and one of his best friends, Wayne Toller, moved to Denver and work at Elitch Gardens.

Jake proudly served in the United States Marine Corps Reserve from October 1964 to October 1970. He attained the rank of Sergeant and was awarded the Rifle Expert Badge, reflecting his dedication, discipline, and commitment to serving his country.

Jake dedicated 35 years of service to the Colorado State Hospital/Colorado Mental Health Institute at Pueblo. He began his career as a Psychiatric Technician, where he cared for and supported patients with compassion and professionalism. Through years of hard work and dedication, he advanced to become the Supervising Supply Officer of the Property Warehouse.

He retired after 35 years of dedicated service to the Colorado Department of Human Services. Throughout his career, he earned the respect and friendship of his coworkers through his strong work ethic, dependable leadership, and willingness to help others.

Jake also worked many other jobs after working his day job.  He ran a gym for the City of Pueblo Parks and Recreation at Morton Elementary School and was a football coach for the “Green Machine” football team.  He worked the YATC program at Parkview Hospital and was a security guard for School District 60. His last job was at Walmart in the Garden Center.

Jake was an avid golfer and a passionate sports fan who faithfully cheered for his favorite teams, the Denver Broncos and the Denver Nuggets. He also enjoyed trips to Cripple Creek, where he loved trying his luck on the slot machines. Whether spending time on the golf course or watching a game with family and friends, Jake appreciated life’s simple pleasures and the memories made with those he loved.

Above all else, Jake treasured his family. He was a loving husband who shared a lifetime of love and devotion with his wife. As a father, he provided guidance, support, and unconditional love. He also valued his many friendships, and his warm smile, sense of humor, and genuine care for others will be deeply missed.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Lorraine Vallejo; his children, Jake Vallejo, Jr., Marla Vallejo, Eric (Angela) Vallejo, Martin (Heidi) Castro, Jonathan (Amanda) Castro, and Andrea (Mark) Landez; his grandchildren, Desmond (Selena) Vallejo, Jerik and Jathon Vallejo, Martin (Roseanna) Castro, Cecilia (Chris) Robbirds, Timothy Castro, Andrew (Blair) Castro, Addison and Kaden Castro, and Avery and John Landez; his great-grandchildren, Ezra Vallejo, Arianna Vallejo, Andre, Aleah, and Corwin Castro, Jackson Pederson, and Isobel Robbirds, His nephews, Lenny (Porsha) Knowlton; Jason (Jen) Wiggins; and Jacob (Ashley) Wiggins along with numerous extended family members and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory. The family would also like to recognize Patricia Murphy for the years she and Jake shared together and for the family they built.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the Sangre de Cristo Hospice staff for the compassionate personal care, comfort, physical care, and spiritual support they provided to Jake and his family.

Jake was preceded in death by his parents, Jake and Lucinda Vallejo; his sister, Annette Knowlton, and brother-in-law Len Knowlton; his niece, Cindy Wiggins, and her son, John Wiggins.

A celebration of Jake’s life will be held on Friday, July 31, 10 a.m. at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church in Pueblo West. Family and friends are invited to gather to honor his memory and celebrate a life well lived. A reception will immediately follow in the church hall.

The family requests that memorial contributions be made to Sangre de Cristo Hospice in Jake’s honor.

Though our hearts are heavy with sorrow, we find comfort in the countless memories Jake gave us and the love he shared so freely. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.