Magdaleno Santillan Obituary

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Magdaleno Santillan, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, and friend, who entered eternal rest on February 15, 2026, in Greeley, Colorado, at the age of 69.

Magdaleno was born on April 22, 1956, in Mexico to Francisca and Rutilio Santillan. As a young man, at approximately 17 years old, he came to the United States around 1975 in search of opportunity and a better life. He first settled near Rocky Ford, Colorado, where he worked as a ranch hand, learning the value of perseverance and honest labor. He later moved to Pueblo, where he worked in a brick factory, continuing to build the foundation of a life defined by hard work and determination.

Magdaleno eventually made his home in Greeley, Colorado, where he married, Maria Perez and they had four children. While in Greeley, he attended Aims Community College and worked in construction before becoming an electrician. Known as a true jack of all trades, Magdaleno was always willing to lend his knowledge, skill, and helping hand to family, friends, and members of his community. He approached every challenge with strength, humility, and grace, earning the respect of all who knew him.

Magdaleno was a devout Christian whose faith guided his life. He lived out his beliefs through kindness, generosity, and compassion toward others. He found great joy in spending time with his family, helping on the family ranch in Zacatecas, Mexico, and participating in church. He also enjoyed fishing, playing guitar, singing, and watching classic kung fu, martial arts, and western films. His sense of humor, warm smile, and welcoming spirit left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Above all, Magdaleno was a devoted family man. His greatest pride and joy were his children and grandchildren, and he cherished every moment spent with them. His life was a testament to love, and unwavering dedication to those he held dear. His legacy of faith, strength, and selflessness will live on in the hearts of his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Magdaleno is survived by his wife, Maria Santillan; his father, Rutilio Santillan; his children, Gloria, Sanjuana (Alberto) Santillan, Enoch Santillan, Haggai Santillan, and Eliseo Santillan; his step-daughter, Ruth (Joey) Soto-Boyle; his granddaughters, Nevaeh, Amari, and Alejandra; his brothers, Carmelo Santillan, Matilde Santillan, Luis Santillan, and Raul Santillan; and his sisters, Estela De la Cruz, and Bertha Vasquez.

He was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Francisca Santillan, and his siblings, Daniel Santillan and Pilar Santillan.

A gathering to honor Magdaleno's remarkable life will be held at Adamson Life Celebration Home, in Greeley, Colorado, with a viewing on Monday, March 2, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., and a funeral service officiated by Pastor Pat on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Linn Grove Cemetery.

The family welcomes all who wish to attend and celebrate Magdaleno's life.