Remembering Emilio: A Veteran's Final Farewell

My dear friend Michelle Otero’s father, Emilio Otero-Franco, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, February 25th, 2025. Emilio was born in Puerto Rico and settled in Colorado in 1968 after being stationed at Fort Carson to fulfill his military obligations. This proud Boricua had no will, no funeral coverage insurance of any kind, and while the bereaved family struggles to cope in this most difficult of times, they simply lack the resources to cover his mortgage until his Colorado home is sold, as well as honoring this United States citizen and veteran with a proper memorial and burial.

Emilio’s daughters Michelle and sister Brenda Otero recalls that her dad was the baby of the family and had one brother and two sisters. “Dad was in the US Army, and during his last few years in the military, he was transferred to Fort Carson, and that is how he came to Colorado. Dad had always had aspirations of being an architect, so he received a Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering.”

Emilio ended up making a career for himself as a steelworker and retired from Colorado Fuel and Iron after over forty-four years. Emilio played fastpitch softball for many years to the delight of his burgeoning family. He also loved fishing and regularly played golf. But Emilio’s favorite pastime was going to the track and betting on the horses and dogs. He also had a passion for playing his timbales, congas, and bongos. Michelle and Brenda recall that when local bands would see her father at their gigs, they would always ask him, “Do you have your drums with you? If so, please join us!” Living in Pueblo, Colorado for over forty-eight years, Emilio could easily be considered the city’s honorary mayor, as he seemed to know just about everyone in town.

A monetary contribution of any amount is so gratefully welcomed as well as any words of love and condolence to a family blindsided by his passing. Thank you all in advance for your gracious acknowledgments. If you’re so inclined, please share!