John Albert Cordova

John Albert Cordova “Chivo” 82

was born on may 18, 1942, in Trinidad, Colorado, and passed away peacefully on March 20, 2025, in his home surrounded by his loving family. He is preceded in death by his parents, John and Josephine Cordova; siblings, Emilio and Jimmy; infant twins; 3 infant grandsons; brothers-in-law, Larry Gonzales, Frank Palacio, Alex Lucero and Victor Rael; and sister-in-law, Seferina Romero. He is survived by his devoted wife of 60 years, Betty Cordova; his 10 children, John (Cheri) Cordova, Lori Cordova (Pete Madrid), Randy (Kim) Cordova, Chris (Michelle) Cordova, Kip (Duanne) Cordova, Jeff (Abby) Cordova, William Cordova (Cassie Lopez), Elvis (Dawn) Cordova, Andrew (Andrea) Cordova, and Brian Cordova; (4 furbabies). He is also survived by his siblings, Bob (Zulema) Cordova, Betty (Alby) Sanchez, Agnes (John) Gomez, Rose Marie Lucero, Anita Gonzales and Shirley Palacio; sisters-in-law, Vicki (John) Sanudo, Connie Bueno, Mary Rael, Jessica Rael, Lena (Manuel) Maez, and Darlene (Chris) Sierra. He adored his 21 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, and 3 furbabies, Chiva, Charlie and Coco.

John was one of 9 siblings. He graduated from Hoehne High School, where he played baseball and met the love of his life, Betty. They married on November 28, 1964, and moved to Tooele, Utah for several years and started their family. They returned back to Colorado and settled in Pueblo in 1968. John was a hard worker, retiring from the Pueblo Army Depot after more than 30 years as a welder where he was known as “Tooele.” A jack of all trades, John could be found working in his garage and helping his sons with odd jobs after his retirement, and found joy in doing anything he could with his own two hands.

“Chivo” was well known in the Pueblo sports community, having coached all of his children throughout their school years, and continuing to coach middle and high school sports for both boys and girls, with baseball being his favorite. He was a devout Catholic and enjoyed helping at the St. Leanders Church Festivals. John never stopped going; he continued working until his later years at Dutch Clark Stadium and the Southwest Motors Event Center. He enjoyed coaching his kids, camping at Monument Lake with his family, fishing, hiking, hunting, and spending time with his grandkids and great grandkids. John’s biggest pride and joy was his family, and he instilled the core value of family that will continue to live on through those he leaves behind. He will always be remembered for his ornery chuckle, his jokes, and his bright smile. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who will be deeply missed.

Chivo’s funeral services: Rosary at 9:30 a.m. followed by the Mass at 10 a.m. on Friday, March 28, 2025, at St. Leander Catholic Church, E. 6th St. and Monument. Interment, Roselawn Cemetery.