Rita Medina

On May 9, 2025, Rita Mayo Medina (nee Martinez) embarked on a journey to join her heavenly family in her “forever home.” Surrounded by her loving family, including her husband, Mitch; her two sons and two daughters, Rita was embraced in the loving arms of the Creator.

Rita Medina was born on May 27, 1935, in Gunnison, Colorado, to Rose and Aaron Martinez.

The Martinez family was very happy yet experienced deep heartache. Rita’s first sister, Sarah, passed very early in life. Tragically, Rita lost her father when she was just two years old. Another devastation hit the little family when Rita’s younger brother, Carlos, passed away.

Rita and her mother moved to San Luis, Colorado, to be closer to family. Rita was fortunate to have an extended family, including beloved cousins whom she cherished as her brothers and sisters. Her grandmother, Leonardita, played a big role in helping to raise Rita.

When her mother married Pete Olivas of San Luis, Rita’s family grew again with “bonus” brothers, sisters and a father.

After marrying Mitch in July 1953, they resided in various cities across Colorado and briefly in Washington state and Wyoming. In 1970, they settled in Trinidad, Colorado, where they lived for an impressive 42 years. During her time in Trinidad, Rita held diverse jobs, including court bailiff, DMV clerk, and Spanish interpreter in the Las Animas County courts.

Rita’s warm smile, infectious laughter, and “sweet soul” left an enduring mark on the lives of her friends and colleagues. A devout Catholic, Rita found joy in attending weekly mass and singing in the church choir. Her musical talents extended beyond singing, as she played the piano and the accordion.

Rita was an avid reader. She instilled the love of reading in all of her children. Movies and music were also her favorite pastimes. Rita was the biggest Denver Broncos fan. She was their unofficial grandma coach.

Mitch and Rita were avid travelers, exploring Peru, Spain, and Mexico. Their favorite destinations were visiting their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Rita cherished her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, calling them her “babies” and “hijitos and hijitas.”

Rita’s passing will leave a lasting impression on all who knew her, especially her devoted family. Her joyful presence, quick laughter and accordion playing will forever echo in her heavenly home.

Rita is survived by her husband of 72 years, Mitch Medina; her four children, Mike Medina Jr., Joanne Duggar (Barney), Michelle Jones (Jeff) and Marty Medina (Jennifer); nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Rosary will be held on Friday, May 16, 10:30 am, St. Augustine’s Church, 178 S 6th Ave, Brighton, CO 80601.

Funeral Mass will immediately follow at 11:00 am.

A reception will be held after Mass at 2:00 pm, Medina/Maddock Residence, 612 So. Ogden, Denver, CO 80209.

Her burial at Ft. Logan National Cemetery, 4400 W. Kenyon Ave., Denver, CO, 80236, will be held on Monday, May 19 at 10:30 am.

In lieu of flowers, Rita’s family kindly requests donations to Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Denver (ccdenver.org) at 6240 Smith Road, Denver, CO 80216.

Condolences may be sent ℅ Mike Medina, Jr. at 5151 W 29th St, #1703, Greeley, CO 80634.