Frances "Gloria" Marie Stanek

Frances Marie Stanek 82, known to many as, Gloria, began her new journey on February 1, 2023 at her home in Windsor, Colorado embraced by her family. Gloria will always be cherished as a beautiful wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and cousin.

She was born in Arboles, Colorado on November 21, 1940 to Antonio Jose and Juanita Candeleria-Valdez She was the second youngest of 13 children. She was raised in Dragerton, Utah and moved to Denver, Colorado during her teen years. In Denver, Gloria met Bernard Stanek who was in the Air Force. The young couple eventually were married on September 19, 1959. They settled in Littleton, Colorado where they started their family and continued to live for many years. Gloria loved living in Colorado. She enjoyed the mountains, beautiful landscapes and exploring with her children. Her family, neighbors, friends and community were very important to her and remained so throughout the years. She obtained her cosmetology license and proceeded to co-own a successful beauty salon of her own. Eventually, the family moved to Arizona where she again made many friends and enjoyed family. In 2005 Gloria suffered a massive stroke leaving her immobilized with a life expectancy of two years. She lived eighteen years and did so with dignity, grace and her strong faith in God. Although she was unable to speak, the few words she could say clearly was “I love you”. In 2017 they returned to her beloved Colorado to be closer to their children and grandchildren. Gloria treasured her granddaughters and relished every moment with them.

Gloria is survived by her husband Bernard Stanek, daughter Kitty (Stephen) McElroy, son Bernard Stanek Jr. and granddaughters Stephanie and Mallery McElroy. Also survived are numerous nieces, nephews and in-laws that she loved dearly.

She is preceded in death by her parents, and all of her brothers and sisters whom she adored.

Sisters: Cora, Ruth, Alice, Ernestina, Gloria Sr. Brothers: Tony, Arthur, Mike, Rey, Fred, Bill and two infants.

We would sincerely like to thank our father Bernard Stanek for his love, dedication and care for our beautiful mother for all these years. We would also like to thank Bristol hospice for their genuine compassion during her transition especially the care and compassion that we all received from Tobie and Mercedes.