Victoria L. Rael

Victoria Louise Rael. a lifetime resident of La Junta, Colorado, passed away surrounded by her children and loved ones on May 14, 2016. Vickie was born on March 23, 1920 to Luz and Maria (Rodriquez) Hernandez. She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 58 years Leroy "Chuy" Rael and numerous family members.
 
The daughter of early settlers to the area, her father and Uncle Rosalio Terrones were among the first to begin farming the fields west of La Junta. She was a house keeper for many, Mrs. Rael was employed by several prominent residents, such as, Dr. William McDivitt, Judge George Strain, Dr. Guy & Dodgie Colange, M.D., Judge Ralph & Susan Wadleigh, County Commissioner Garth & Dorothy Grenard.
 
Vickie was an avid Minnesota Vikings fan, she loved watching her garden grow, cooking for her family, embroidery, word search puzzles, and her soap operas. Mrs. Rael will be remembered for her dedicated service to Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church - group one. She was a great story teller who loved to reminisce about the 'good 'ole days' growing up in La Junta. One of her fondest memories was when she was asked to speak about her life experiences during the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl to the students at La Junta High School.
 
Mrs. Rael is survived by her seven children, Leroy (Angel) Rael, Gloria (Joe) Gonzales, Rebecca (George) Rael-Garcia, Luz Rael, Ruben (Esther) Rael, Anthony (Marie) Rael and Yolanda Rael; 22 grandchildren, 42 great-grandchildren, 11 great, great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
 
The family would like to thank: Arkansas Valley Regional Medical Center, the numerous Doctors and Staff at the nursing home for their dedication and care for our loved one throughout her stay.
 
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association (www.ALZ.org), 4104 Outlook Blvd., Pueblo, CO, 81008 direct or through the funeral home.
 
Peacock-Larsen Funeral Home & Arkansas Valley Crematory is in charge of arrangements.

Recitation of the Holy Rosary will be Tuesday, May 17, 2016, at 9:30 a.m. followed by the Funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m. Both services at Our Lady of Guadalupe/St. Patrick Parish with Father Matthew Wertin officiating. Visitation will be Today (Monday), May 16 from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Peacock Memorial Chapel.