Monte Vista resident Christel Kuellenberg, 86, passed away on July 9, 2024, at Pikes Peak Hospice in Colorado Springs. Christel was born to Johann “Hans” and Mechthilde (Koch) Münch in Duisburg, Germany. She married the love of her life, Paul Kuellenberg, on Nov. 19, 1955, in Hamborn, Germany, and together they immigrated to Canada in August 1956. They immigrated to the United States in 1965. In 1976, they moved to the San Luis Valley and have called it home since.
Christel was a homemaker for most of her life; she was an amazing wife, mother, and grandmother. She was the epitome of a caretaker, finding great joy in caring for others. From neighbors to friends and family members, she always went out of her way to help others. Everyone who knew her knew that she could be counted on if needed.
Christel was a social butterfly, and her trips to the grocery store were often extended as she would frequently run into friends and old acquaintances, enjoying conversations with all of them. She had a special place in her heart for little children, whom she adored dearly. Christel was very family-oriented and cherished spending time with her family. She also enjoyed working in her yard and assisting Paul with anything he needed.
Those left behind to carry on her legacy are her two daughters, Caroline Kuellenberg of Monte Vista and Margaret (George) Barone of San Diego, Calif.; sister Doris Münch of San Jose, Calif.; grandchildren Christopher Kuellenberg of Las Vegas, Nev., and Tania (Daniel) Spivey of San Diego, Calif.; and great-grandchildren Chloe Kuellenberg and Robert Madril, both of Georgia.
Christel was preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, Paul Kuellenberg, both of her parents, and her siblings Gisela (Matten) Münch and Johann "Hansie" Münch, as well as her great-grandmother Emilie (Lannig) Münch.
Cremation has been chosen, and a memorial service will be held at a later date in California.
Arrangements have been made through Rogers Family Mortuary. To leave online remarks, condolences, and words of comfort for Christel’s family, please visit www.RogersFunerals.com.
