Benita Cordova

Benita Cordova, a lifelong resident of Montrose passed away May 3, 2014, with her loving family by her side.  Benita was born August 25, 1925 to Jose Romaldo Chavez and Maria Anita (Madrid) Chavez.  She was the eldest of ten children.

Benita married Charles (Chuck) Cordova, the love of her life, on December 8, 1947.  They were married at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church.  They celebrated 65 years of marriage before Charlie’s death in 2013.  Benita and Charles had three children, Elizabeth Ann, Charles Jr. and John; six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.  After they were married, Benita and Charles lived in Salt Lake City, Utah for two years before returning to Montrose. Benita then worked at the local five and dime store, Hesteads for seven years.  Besides being a homemaker and caring Mother, she cared for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  Benita also did the payroll and book-keeping for her husband’s business Cordova Fencing.  She was a devout member of Saint Mary’s Catholic Church and an avid Rockies fan.

Benita is survived by her daughter Elizabeth; son Charles, both of Montrose; and five sisters, Susan Madrid, Jessie Chacon, Adeline Rocha; Linda (Bob) Jiron, and Mary Ann Alvarez; four grandchildren, Lori McDowell, Christopher Cordova, Tashina and Naomi Cordova.  Benita was preceded in death by her parents; one child, John Cordova; three brothers, Miguel Chavez, Raynell Chavez and Ronaldo Chavez, one sister, Merecedes McIlwain; two granddaughters, Nakima and Monica Cordova; and one very special niece, Maria Markus. 

A vigil and Rosary service will be held on Thursday, May 8, 2014 at 7:00 p.m. with a visitation from 6:00 to 6:45p.m. at Crippin Funeral Home Chapel.  A Funeral Service is scheduled for Friday, May 9, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church with Deacon Mike Rovella officiating.  Interment will follow the service at Valley Lawn Cemetery, South of Montrose.  Arrangements are under the direction of Crippin Funeral Home & Crematory, Montrose, Colorado.