Elizabeth Jean Gutierrez

Elizabeth Jean Gutierrez, lovingly known as Liz, Libby, Mom, Nonny, and Aunty, passed away peacefully on March 23, 2026, at the age of 79, surrounded by her devoted family after ongoing health complications.
Liz was born on October 19, 1946, in Walsenburg, Colorado, to Grace Sandoval and Theodore Espinoza. She was raised by Emma Aragon, whom she lovingly called "Mom." She attended John Mall High School and went on to build a dedicated career, working for 24 years as a receptionist for the Larimer County Assessor's Office.
Liz was a woman of deep faith and unwavering love. A strong believer and follower of Christ, her life was rooted in God, family, and community. She found joy in life's simple pleasures—sewing, crocheting, scrapbooking, reading, and spending time in the mountains. She especially loved nature, including watching buffalo in Wyoming, and cherished moments spent driving, laughing, and being with those she loved.
Known for her hardworking spirit and kind heart, Liz had a gift for making everyone feel seen and cared for. She never missed a birthday or anniversary and delighted in treating her great-grandchildren to ice cream, snacks, and special trips to the dollar store. No matter what she was facing, she was always ready to help others, giving selflessly and without hesitation.
Liz also had a generous spirit and quietly supported causes close to her heart, including churches, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and the Wounded Warrior Project, always finding a way to give even during her own hardships.
Her greatest pride was her family. She embraced her roles as a wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and aunt with love and devotion.
She is survived by her beloved husband, Rosendo; her daughter, Tessa; her grandchildren, Marcus (and his wife Brittany) and their children Abriella, Mac, and Aubriana; Destiny; and Xzavier. She is also survived by her sister, Shirley; stepdaughters Alicia, Maria, and Raquel and their families; niece Yvette and her family; nephew Floyd and his family; niece Estella; nephew William; niece Connie; as well as many cherished cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends—too many to name, but all deeply loved.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Grace Sandoval and Theodore Espinoza; her mother, Emma Aragon; her siblings Margaret Virginia Gonzales and Rose Barela; and her cousin JoAnn Cortez.
A viewing will be held on Thursday, April 9, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Goes Funeral Care, 3665 Canal Dr Unit E, Fort Collins, Colorado. A funeral service will take place on Friday, April 10, 2026, at 4:00 PM at Foundations Church, 1159 Main St, Windsor, Colorado, followed by a reception at Foundations Church.
Flowers may be sent to Goes Funeral Care.
Liz's legacy of love, faith, generosity, and kindness will live on in all who knew her.