With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Helen Pacheco, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, who departed this life peacefully on June 3, 2026, in her hometown of Del Norte, Colorado. Born on February 7, 1942, in Del Norte, Helen dedicated her life to her family and her community.

Helen was married to her devoted husband, Modesto Pacheco, for 65 wonderful years. Together, they nurtured a family filled with love and cherished memories. Helen is survived by her four children: Diane Pacheco of Del Norte, Joseph (Bernadette) Pacheco of Del Norte, Arthur (Paula) Pacheco of Del Norte, and Janelle (Colt) Creamer of Spring Creek, Nevada. She leaves behind a legacy of thirteen grandchildren; Marcus (Shala) Pacheco, Vance (Kanani) Pacheco, Christian Pacheco, Tomas Maestas, Monique Mills, Nicolas Maestas, Andres Maestas, Kolton Pacheco, Kiahna (Antonio) Duran, Kamrynn Pacheco, Kynlie (Chesnee) Pacheco, Jadeyn (Paige) Martinez, Justyn (Lauryn) Martinez, Jareyn Martinez, Kelsie Creamer, Camille Martindale and Tristin Creamer and ten great-grandchildren; Graysen Pacheco, Braylee Pacheco, Haidence Pacheco, Aria Medina, Hailey Pacheco, Landen Pacheco, Tinsleigh Pacheco, Kingston Pacheco, Maddox Pacheco, Kayson Duran, Ryder Martinez, Ava Martinez and Colesyn Martinez, each of whom she adored and took great pride in.

Helen attended Adams State College and majored in Early Childhood Education and went on to dedicate 38 years of her life holding multiple positions at Head Start in Del Norte, including Director, nurturing the minds of young children and fostering a love of learning within the community. She was also an active member of Holy Name of Mary Catholic Church, where she touched lives as the choir director for many years. Her faith guided her life, and it was evident in her warm, loving spirit.

In addition to her work, Helen enjoyed numerous hobbies, including camping, fishing, word searches, reading and she had a love for New Mexican music. Her laughter, kindness, and unwavering dedication to her family and friends will be deeply missed.

Helen is preceded in death by her parents Rumaldo and Elenora Marquez, her siblings: Leonard Marquez, Dave Marquez, Felix Armenta, May Gallegoes, Rose Gallegoes, Theresa Pacheco, Josie Manzanares, and Ernestine Manzanares. Her family finds solace in the beautiful memories they shared and the love they continue to carry in their hearts.

Cremation has been chosen in accordance with Helen's wishes. A Rosary will be held at 7:00 pm on June 9, 2026 at the Holy Name of Mary Catholic Church in Del Norte and a Memorial Mass to honor her life will be held at 10:00 am on Wednesday June 10, 2026 also at the church in Del Norte. We encourage all who knew and loved Helen to join us in celebrating her extraordinary life and the love she so generously shared.