Andrew "Andy" Gallegos

August 18, 1937 - April 2, 2012 Born and raised in Silverton, CO, Andy was one of eight children born to Daniel and Ascension “Shonita” Gallegos. His early years in Silverton are among some of his happiest, and stories from that time in his life are full of humor, innocence and good times. During the last few weeks of his life, many Silverton stories were shared and relived, and it was a great source of joy to both his family and to him. Andy graduated from Silverton High School in 1956, married Alice Vialpando and settled in Denver, CO where they raised four children together. During most of his working years, he worked for Martin Marietta (which later became Lockheed Martin) and generated many deep and lasting friendships there. To the end of his life, he often still visited with many of his friends from “Martin” and those he wasn't able to see often, he talked about and remembered frequently. Some of Andy's happiest memories date to this time in his life. Andy retired from “Martin” and stayed in Denver. Throughout his life, Andy continued to bring joy wherever he went with his kind heart and good humor. Old friends from high school, friends from “Martin”, and even the nurses he met during his fight against cancer all remember his enchanting smile and his cheery outlook. Where ever he was - at work or at home; at “the hill”, or even in chemotherapy - he cherished every moment fully and appreciated the little things that make life enjoyable - and in so doing he touched those around him in the most profound way. Andy “Papo” Gallegos is not a man easily forgotten, and his legacy will live on in all the people who knew him. We say goodbye to Andy on Wednesday April 11, 2012 at 3:30 PM at Presentation of Our Lady Church (695 Julian Street, Denver, CO), but Andy will never be truly gone. Andy is survived by his four children Tim Gallegos, Tammy Hunter, Terry Gallegos, and Tracy Sullivan; two siblings - his sister Susie Stollsteimer and his brother Walt Gallegos; 13 grand children, and 1 great-grandchild. Andy was preceded in death by his parents, 4 brothers, 1 sister and 1 great-grandchild. Following the services at Presentation of Our Lady, a reception will be held to celebrate the memory of Andy Gallegos. If you plan to join the family to share stories, reminisce, remember and celebrate, please view the reception details at http://t.co/PFZxqtOB Memorial donations for Andy Gallegos can be made to the San Juan County Historical Society, PO Box 154, Silverton, CO 81433