With profound sadness and deep love, we announce the passing of Leo "Joe" Mora Jr., who entered eternal rest on May 29, 2026, at the age of 66. Joe was born on May 27, 1960, in Alamosa, Colorado, to Leo J. Mora Sr. and Nea Mora. He was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, respected rancher, hardworking miner, skilled welder, loyal friend, and a cherished member of his community.
Joe spent his childhood in Canon, Colorado, where he developed the strong work ethic, values, and deep appreciation for family and agriculture that would define his life. He attended elementary, junior high and high school in Antonito, Colorado, graduating with the Class of 1978.
Following graduation, Joe began his career at the Grefco Perlite Mine during the summer of 1978. Determined to build a future for himself, he attended Red Rocks Community College from 1978 to 1979, where he earned his welding certifications. His dedication and willingness to work hard opened many doors throughout his life.
On December 27, 1980, Joe married the love of his life, Geraldine "Gerri" Mora, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in Conejos, Colorado. Their marriage was a beautiful testament to love, commitment, and partnership, spanning over 45½ years. Together they built a life rooted in faith, family, and hard work.
From 1980 to 1982, Joe worked underground at the Climax Molybdenum Mine in Leadville, Colorado. In 1982, he returned to Canon, Colorado, where he and Gerri established their home and began building the life they had envisioned together. Joe worked alongside his father on the family ranch and farm, embracing the agricultural lifestyle he loved so dearly.
From 1984 to 2003, Joe worked at Grefco Perlite while simultaneously ranching and farming. From 1984 until the day of his passing, he dedicated himself to caring for the land, livestock, and traditions that had been passed down by his father. Ranching and farming were not merely occupations for Joe; they were his passion and way of life.
Joe was a man of many talents and interests. He was gifted in fabrication and mechanics, always able to build, repair, or improve anything he set his mind to. He loved riding horses and UTVs, camping beneath the Colorado skies, fishing with family and friends, and spending time outdoors. He was an avid sports fan who faithfully cheered for the Denver Broncos, Denver Nuggets, and Duke Blue Devils. He rarely missed watching the Barrett-Jackson auctions and enjoyed reality restoration shows, where craftsmanship and hard work were celebrated. Joe was also known as a savvy deal seeker with a remarkable ability to uncover treasures and great bargains wherever he went.
While Joe's accomplishments were many, family remained the center of his life. His greatest joy came from spending time with his beloved wife, daughters, sons-in-law, and grandchildren. He treasured every family gathering, every conversation, and every opportunity to create lasting memories with those he loved. He shared special bonds with his sisters, extended family members, and countless friends. Nothing brought him more happiness than being surrounded by family.
Joe is survived by his devoted wife of 45½ years, Geraldine "Gerri" Mora; his daughters, Pamela Mora-Lopez (Benjamin Lopez), Kayte Mora (Darrel Cordova), and Jodi Mora-Abila (Paul Abila); and his cherished grandchildren, Sawyer Lopez, Silas Lopez, Amani Lopez, Kynsley Cordova, Haevyn Abila, and Alaina Abila.
He is also survived by his loving sisters, Catherine Luevano, Cindy Mora, Debbie Mora, and Maria Garcia (Ricky Garcia), along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends whose lives were enriched by his presence.
Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Leo J. Mora Sr. and Nea Mora; his brother, Conrad "Terry" Mora; his sister, Carnation Rose Mora; and his father-in-law, Filemon Garcia.
Joe will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his strong work ethic, his generosity, his sense of humor, and his willingness to help anyone in need. His legacy lives on in the values he instilled, the land he cared for, the friendships he nurtured, and the family he loved so deeply.
Though our hearts are heavy with loss, we find comfort knowing that Joe's life was one well lived, filled with purpose, love, and devotion. His memory will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
Rosary Service
Wednesday, June 10, 2026
7:00 p.m.
Our Lady of Guadalupe Church
Conejos, Colorado
Funeral Mass
Thursday, June 11, 2026
11:00 a.m.
Our Lady of Guadalupe Church
Conejos, Colorado
Interment will follow at Las Mesitas Cemetery 33525 State Hwy 17, Antonito, CO
Reception to follow burial at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish Hall.
The family extends their sincere gratitude to all relatives, friends, and community members for their prayers, support, and expressions of love during this difficult time.
To leave online condolences please visit romerofuneralhomes.com
The care of arrangements has been entrusted to Romero Valley Funeral Home of Alamosa.
In loving memory of Leo “Joe” Mora Jr., forever in our hearts.
