Lora M. Marquez

1944 ~ Teacher Mae ~ 2025

Lora Mae Marquez, 81 passed away peacefully May 27th, 2025. She left behind a legacy of love, laughter, resilience, and wisdom. She lived a full and vibrant life, and was the true matriarch of 5 generations.

Mae was born in Romeo, CO to Zenobio & Lucille Sanchez. She grew up in Center, CO and the family traveled frequently with her father who sheered sheep. She met Dan on one of these trips & they were married March 7, 1960. They had 6 children. Volunteering in her oldest son’s classroom inspired her to start school & become a headstart teacher in the midst of raising a family.

She faced life’s hardships with remarkable resilience. No matter what came her way, she always found a way through—with grit, grace, and often a dose of humor. Even when she was struggling, she was the first to offer a helping hand, a kind word, or a warm hug. Her strength was quiet but powerful, and it carried generations of our family through life’s toughest moments.

Teacher Mae wasn’t just a job or a title—it is who she was. She shared wisdom and life lessons with her family, students & everyone that knew her. Instilling in them not just knowledge, but compassion, curiosity, and the importance of always showing up for one another. She always had an answer for everything. She taught us that 85% of life can be figured out and to laugh & learn from the mistakes. She was witty, a little bit wild, and completely herself. Mae’s door was open to all.

Her smile lit up every room she walked into, and her presence will be missed more than words can express. Though she’s no longer with us in body, her spirit lives on in every lesson, every story, every laugh she gifted us—and maybe even in a warm beer.

She is now reunited with her husband Dan, her sons Christopher and Andy, and her grandson Brandon. She is survived by her children Pilar (Glen) Coup, Nathan Marquez, Sally (Carlton) Thomas, and Danette Steele, 9 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren, & 5 great great granddaughters.

Funeral services will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic church in Fruita, CO on June 23rd. The rosary will start at 9:30 Mass will start at 10:30 and a luncheon will be held after mass.

We love you always, and we promise to keep your legacy alive—with a little sass, a lot of love, and maybe just a few eye rolls.

Remember to eat dessert first cause life is short.