Phillip R. Villalovos

Phillip R. Villalovos, age 96, passed away peacefully on April 7, 2025, in Broomfield, Colorado. A devoted Denver Policeman, steadfast family man, and enduring soul, Phil’s life was marked by integrity, loyalty, and a deep commitment to those he loved and served.

Born on May 10, 1928, in the coal mining town of Mt. Harris, Colorado, Phil was the son of Albert and Wyoming Villalovos. In 1934, at the age of six, his family relocated to Denver, where he would spend most of his life. He attended Denver Public Schools—beginning at 24th Street School for elementary education, continuing through Cole Junior High School, and graduating from Manual Training School in June 1946.

After high school, Phil began working at the House of Wheels bicycle shop alongside his father. He remained there until 1957 when he embarked on a distinguished career with the Denver Police Department.

Joining the force on January 2, 1957, Phil served in multiple divisions including Traffic, Patrol, and the K9 Corps—where he partnered with his loyal canine partner Taco. In 1967, he was promoted to Detective in the Juvenile Bureau and later rose to the rank of Sergeant on January 2, 1970. His leadership as Supervisor in both the Juvenile Division and Homicide Bureau (7 1/2 years) spanned a decade of dedicated service. After thirty years of unwavering commitment to public safety and justice, Phil retired on January 16, 1987.

Throughout his career, Phil was an active member of several professional organizations including the Police Protective Association, Denver Police Union Local 109, Colorado Police Protective Association, and Denver Police Brotherhood.

On June 18, 1950, Phil married Lena R. Valdez. Together they raised four children: Sandra, Arlene, Warren, and Lori Ann. Their union endured joy and heartbreak alike—celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary in June 1975 before facing unimaginable loss. On July 26, 1975, their youngest daughter Lori Ann was tragically killed at age fifteen by a drunk driver. Just over a year later, on August 12, 1976, Lena passed away from cancer.

Despite these profound losses, Phil carried forward with strength and class. He found and received a second chance at love with Mary Lou O’Boyle. They were married in Honolulu on May 19, 1977, and later made their home in Las Vegas following his retirement. Their marriage spanned 45 years until Mary Lou’s passing—another loss that deeply affected him.

In yet another sorrowful chapter of his life story, Phil lost his eldest daughter Sandra following a fall in her home, a wound that left a lasting mark on his heart.

Phil is survived by his daughter Arlene Straight (Steven), son Warren Villalovos (Julie), stepson Brian O’Boyle; grandsons Luke Kohut, Adam Ahlstrom, Jeremiah Straight; step-grandsons John O’Boyle and David O’Boyle; sister Frances Dyke; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Albert and Wyoming Villalovos; wives Lena and Mary Lou; daughters Sandra Ahlstrom and Lori Ann; brothers Cecil and Charlie; sisters Beatrice McClellan, Bernice Lujan, and Josephine Montez.

In his younger years Phil enjoyed fishing, camping, and hunting—pastimes that reflected his love for nature and quiet reflection. He had a passion for basketball and proudly played for—and coached—the Denver Police Department basketball team during its travels. Phil spent time coaching his son in baseball and lead the team to the All-Star game. He also appreciated the simple pleasure of a good cigar—a ritual he passed down with humor and care: “Don’t smoke it too fast or you’ll get sick.”

Phil was a man who stood firm and didn’t compromise the truth. He taught those around him how to live with honor—how to be strong through adversity—and how to persevere and to go the distance. He was a protector with unwavering allegiance to family—a hero not only for what he did but for who he was.

But, with all great heroes, their end can be their greatest battle. This battle would be challenging, an unjust fight, with odds stacked against our Dad. As he entered the arena. There was mighty clouds of witnesses, all familiar faces to cheer our Dad on, and with prepared heart and mind he fought. And as he lost, he won……and onto the field raced his beloved, precious, spirited wives to join the crowd as they watched and cheered him on…as the Lord said unto him, “Well done, good and faithful servant”…

The family suggests that donations be made to either the American Cancer Society or the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, below are some quick links for convenience.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 23, 2025 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at Olinger Crown Hill – Serenity Pointe located at 7777 W. 29th Ave., Wheat Ridge, Colorado 80033. A funeral service will follow immediately from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at the same location. Committal will take place at Mt. Olivet Catholic Cemetery at 12801 W. 44th Ave., Wheat Ridge at 2:30 PM.

Phil’s legacy lives on through the many lives he touched—with stories both funny and serious that continue to echo across generations. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.