Louis Benedicto Gallegos

Louis (Louie) Benedicto Gallegos, born May 24, 1934, at Durango, Colorado, was the eldest son of John F. and Clara Gallegos. He was followed by Jim, Chris. Theresa, Sam, Richard, Rosalie (Judy) and Lorraine. The family lived in various towns in the southwest corner of Colorado, including Durango, Silverton, Allison and Montrose. Louie loved and always spoke fondly of his parents, brothers and sisters. Louie had special relationships with each, and a special bond with his brother Jim and his wonderful wife Matilda. Louie lived with them for several years prior to moving back to Farmington and earlier on when they lived in Gardena.

Louie’s shared memories when growing up included working alongside his father in the mines and on the farms, and his mother in the gardens, as well as fishing, hiking and watching over his brothers and sister Theresa. Louie felt most at peace at the riverbank or on a boat with a fishing pole in his hand. Recently shared memories were mostly fishing with Theresa, Sam and daughter Liz, and friend Robert Pacheco.

Louie enrolled in the Navy on the “buddy” plan but they were soon separated. He proudly served at the U.S. Submarine Base at Pearl Harbor. One of his pastimes in the Navy was boxing and his recently shared stories with his brother-in-law Johan showed his knowledge and memory of past boxers, as well as his wit and storytelling capabilities.

Louie followed his family to California and was excited to be reunited with Uncle Dutch and Aunt Lupe. While in California, he worked at a metal shop, but eventually returned to Farmington where he became one of the favorite custodians at Farmington High School.

Louie held a special place in his heart for children, and especially his many nieces and nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews. Louie also loved dogs and they loved him. A few of his recently shared memories included visits from his nieces Terry and Duwana, taking his niece Jamie Jo to the horseraces, and walking with his grandniece Addison and Pancho to the local park when living in Wildomar.

Louie in his later years, although legally blind, was able to live on his own with the assistance of Tracey, Cayenne and Lauren, among others, from Visiting Angels and Hailey and Matt, among others, from the VA, as well as caring neighbors. His favorite pastimes were talking to his sisters Judy and Lorraine, visiting with friends and family, watching sports and Fox news, as well as listening to music and his favorite preachers on the radio. When he was able, he loved reading western novels, such as Louis L’Amour.

Louie was a sweet, gentle, generous witty man with a big heart.

Louie passed peacefully on March 22, 2025, with his sister Judy by his side. A Celebration of Life dinner was held and many memories were both shared and created. There is great joy in the celebration of Louie’s life and happiness in knowing that he no longer struggles, and the belief that he is in God’s loving light and care for eternity.

In lieu of contributions, I ask that you consider a nominal gift for the direct benefit of three minor children who have been and are presently residing at Farmington CYFD. The State has exhausted all resources in attempting to find them a foster or permanent home. If you would like to make a contribution or would like additional information concerning these three children, please contact Judy Rolandsson at (916) 208-4036, or visit her Facebook page (Judy Rolandsson) or Instagram (gratefuljudy).