Bernadette Edith Aragon

Bernadette Edith Aragon, 82, passed away peacefully at Pathways Hospice in Fort Collins, Colorado on July 28, 2026. Born in Taos, New Mexico, she was one of 14 children of Joseph and Estella Duran, raised in a large, loving, and hardworking family that shaped her lifelong devotion to togetherness and resilience.

On December 13, 1962, Bernadette married Robert Aragon in Denver, Colorado. In the early years of their marriage, she assisted Robert as he completed the construction of three homes in Northern Colorado, helping build the foundation of the life they would share.
Bernadette worked alongside her husband and sons in their family logging company, Aragon & Sons. She was affectionately known as the “chief cook and bottle washer” and served as the emotional anchor for everyone. She also drove trucks loaded with logs from job sites throughout the Rocky Mountains, navigating rugged terrain with skill and grit. On the CB radio, she was proudly known as “Lady Pinecone.”

Later in life, Bernadette and Robert opened their hearts even further by becoming foster parents for delinquent teenagers. Over many years, they welcomed 104 teens into their home, offering structure, compassion, and a safe place to land. Their dedication changed countless lives and remains one of the most profound parts of Bernadette’s legacy.

No memoir of Bernadette can be written without mentioning her extraordinary ability to cook for a crowd — a gift she shared generously with family, friends, and every teen who ever entered her home. Her enchiladas, tostadas, green chile, fresh beans, chicken‑fried steak with mashed potatoes and white gravy, stuffed sopapillas, and her signature Christmas tamales were legendary. Her kitchen was a place of comfort, nourishment, and togetherness, and her meals remain some of the most cherished memories for all who loved her.

Survivors include, Jess Aragon (Cindi), Matthew Aragon (Lori), Honorary son, Iswad Cherry; Grandsons, Ethan Aragon (Maddie), Nicholas Dore; Bonus Granddaughters, Brandi (David), Jordan (Bubba); Bonus Great‑Granddaughters, Bianca and Harlowe, and Great‑Grandson Ryker.
She was preceded in death by her husband Robert Aragon, her parents, several siblings, and her daughter Edith Dore.

A Celebration of Life will be announced in the near future. Family and friends will be invited to gather, share memories, and honor the beautiful life she lived.

“I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help.
My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth.”
Psalm 121:1–2