Antonietta (Muskardin) Menza

Born: July 4, 1934, Mošćenice, Croatia

Deceased: December 16, 2024, Castle Rock, Colorado

Born on the Fourth of July, Antonietta passed peacefully midway through the season of Advent with her humble Nativity nearby. Antonietta triumphed over many hardships, most notably as a child during war and as caregiver to her late husband, a stroke survivor for the last three decades of their 54-year marriage. An extraordinary seamstress and needleworker, she preserved the family’s dignity stitch-by-stitch altering the most exclusive bridal dresses—her gifted hands always in demand.

Antonietta bravely met challenges with keen learning and sharp wit, and she delighted in music and nature—especially her beloved Adriatic Sea. She would say that no matter where she went, church felt like home. Fluent in three languages, she had a heightened appreciation for this country and its protectors. She poured love into comforting meals that cannot be replicated and exquisite creations that will endure as family treasures. "Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate." Proverbs 31:31

Antonietta is preceded in death by husband Joseph, parents Josip and Ana (Valcich), brother Danko, and son-in-law Bob.

She is survived by children Michael and Anna Maria (Ken); grandchildren Robert (fiancée Marissa), Annette, and Stephanie; brothers Josip and Riko (Sonia); and cherished in-laws and relatives across the US and overseas.

Antonietta’s family thanks loved ones for their kindness during her short illness and praises her caregivers who, like the Advent wreath, lit the way with hope, peace, joy, and love.

In place of flowers, please consider a donation to the Green Beret Foundation.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, December 30, 2024 at 11:00 am at St. Thomas More Catholic Parish, 8035 S Quebec St., Centennial, CO 80112. A reception will follow the Mass at the church. Graveside service will occur Monday, December 30, 2024 at 2:00 pm at Olinger Hampden Mortuary & Cemetery, 8600 East Hampden Ave, Denver, CO 80231.