Parker former Alamosa resident Arnold Gallegos, passed away September 19, 2017 under Hospice Care in Denver. Arnold was born on March 13, 1946 in Alamosa, Colorado, the son of Ben Gallegos and Molly Mondragon Gallegos. He was united in marriage to Susan Smith on August 30, 1969. Arnold worked for many years as teacher, counselor and administrator for the Alamosa and Englewood  School Districts and also served in the National Guard. He was a member of Phi Delta Kappa and the Lions Club. He was also a certified Athletic Administrator. Arnold received counselor of the year award for the 1999- 2000 school year. Also recognized for Outstanding Young Man of America 1974, Lance Huffman Award and the Colorado School Counselor Association 2002. Gallegos eyes sparkle as he talks about working with students. He always said, “my love for kids is what drives me.” Cher Tufly stated, “Arnie is skilled in human relations, this is essentially what he does. He is exceptional at reaching out and connecting to the students.”  Cher also said, “Mr. Gallegos, is held in high esteem by students, administrators, and teachers alike. The staff at the school appreciated and respected Arnie. “His passion in life was riding his motorcycles, listening to music, going on camping trips in his R.V., fishing and cooking. He was a kind, loving and compassionate person who will be dearly missed.

Survivors include his wife Sue Gallegos of Parker, CO; brother Ron Gallegos (Sandy Baca- Sandoval) of Broomfield, CO; sister-in-laws Linda Smith, Diane Maes both of Alamosa, CO; Vivian Maes of Chino, CA; brother-in-law Lance Clark (Debbie Hoier) of Alamosa, CO; Medward Romero of La Jara, CO; He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Arnold was preceded in death by his parents Ben and Molly Gallegos, baby brother Roger Gallegos, sister-in-law Kim Romero, mother-in-law Rose Smith, brothers-in-law Ted and Tony Maes.

Cremation was selected. A Vigil Service with Recitation of the Rosary will be held on Friday, September 29, 2017 at 7:00 PM at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. A Memorial Mass will be held on Saturday, September 30, 2017 at 11:00 AM also at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Inurnment will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Humane Society of Alamosa.  The care of arrangements have been placed in care of Romero Funeral Home of Alamosa.