Marilyn Croce Obituary

Marilyn Croce, née Quintana, a beloved homemaker and cherished mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on April 18, 2026, in her hometown of Denver, Colorado. She was born on April 25, 1950, also in Denver.

Marilyn was truly the heart of her family, known far and wide for her extraordinary talent in the kitchen. She crafted the spiciest Mexican dishes imaginable—enchiladas bursting with flavor, hearty chili, perfectly seasoned beans and rice, and fresh tortillas that brought everyone to the table with joy. Her culinary gifts were matched only by her dedication to maintaining an immaculate home, where tidiness and order reflected her meticulous spirit.

Those who knew Marilyn well remember her as a woman of great generosity and strength. She spoke her mind with candor but never lost her ability to make people laugh, filling rooms with a warmth that was both genuine and uplifting. Her family often fondly recalls how she would call them, eager for them to come and share the food she had lovingly prepared—her way of ensuring that no one ever went hungry and everyone felt cared for.

Marilyn’s simple pleasures were part of what made her so endearing. She loved the crisp sound of opening a cold Pepsi, her favorite drink alongside Lay’s potato chips—a sound so iconic to her family that finding her was as easy as listening for that familiar pop. She delighted in shopping excursions, quiet visits to Mother Cabrini, and treasured hours spent watching her favorite television shows, Little House on the Prairie and The Waltons. The warmth and traditions of Thanksgiving and Christmas held a special place in her heart, especially the memories she created with her late husband, Bill Croce I, making these holidays unforgettable for their children.

A tender memory that will forever live in the hearts of her family was the sight of Marilyn and Bill holding hands, cruising through the mountains on peaceful drives—a testament to a love that endured and inspired all who witnessed it.

Marilyn took immeasurable pride in her family: her children Jeanette Cordova (James), Bill Croce II, Angelic Croce (Luke), and Sabrina Padilla (Hondo); her ten grandchildren; and her twenty-one great-grandchildren. Her devotion to them was the cornerstone of her life, and her legacy of love and kindness will continue to shine through them.

A visitation will be held on May 1, 2026, from 10:00 to 11:00 AM at Newcomer Funeral Home, West Metro in Denver, located at 901 S Sheridan Blvd. This will be followed immediately by the funeral service from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and a gathering afterward until 1:00 PM. These moments will allow family and friends to celebrate the remarkable life of Marilyn Croce, honoring the woman who opened her heart and home so generously.

Though Marilyn has departed this world, she leaves behind enduring memories and timeless love. May her spirit find peace in the mountains she so adored, and may her family find comfort in the countless ways she touched their lives.