Jose Gilbert Archuleta, Gilbert, as he was most known, went to be with his Lord and Savior Aug. 14, 2020. Gilbert was born to Max and Cordy (Naranjo) Archuleta Oct. 13, 1939, in Monte Vista, Colorado.

The family later moved to Montrose where Gilbert graduated and joined the service. Gilbert joined the Marines and later retired from the Army as Staff Sergeant. While in the service he was in special forces and a Green Beret. Gilbert moved to Denver and worked and retired from the U.S. Postal Service.

Gilbert was a very happy person always with a smile and a great personality and attitude. He was very loved and respected by this family and friends.

Gilbert is survived by his son Reyes (Elaine), grandson Travis, granddaughter Tori and three great-grandchildren. He is also survived by three sisters, Marcella (Randy), Velma and Kathy (Fred) and numerous nephews, nieces, cousins, an Aunt Ruby and Connie, his constant companion for his last 15 years.

Gilbert was preceded in death by his parents, one brother Manuel, his sister-in-law Becky and his special cousins Tommy, Albert and Verna and his two wives.

Gilbert moved to Monte Vista to live on his dad’s property where he became a big part of our lives. We were all brought up more like brothers and sisters. All of our mom’s brothers and sisters’ families (10) and remain close through our reunions.

While in Monte Vista, Gilbert became reacquainted with his family here. He also met Connie, his constant companion in everything. Connie and Gilbert enjoyed dancing, traveling, fishing, long drives to explore, eating out, bingo and some gambling, but mostly, having family and friends visit them. Ivan and Peggy, Felix and Guerra, and Billy were close friends.

Gilbert got to enjoy his retirement until his illness when he was in Pueblo hospital then in a rehab in Denver where he went to St. Anthony’s. Then he went to a home in Aurora and the hospital again and on to hospice, where he was given two days to live and died two days later.

Gilbert will be missed by all those close to him.

A funeral service was held in Denver at Romero’s with the Funeral at Crown Hill. A memorial service will be held Sept. 19, 2020, at Lariat Community Baptist Church, 433 Lincoln Avenue in Lariat in Monte Vista with Ursula Medina officiating and a meal following the service.