Laura Christine Avila

LAURA CHRISTINE AVILA 

JULY 2, 1932 - APRIL 5, 2026

On Wednesday, April 15, 2026, Laura Christine Avila, loving mother, sister, aunt, and friend passed away at the age of 93. 

Laura was the oldest of eight children born to Roman and Charlotte (Quintana) Avila, coming into the world on July 2, 1932. She grew up in Denver and graduated from St Joseph High School. On June 21, 1958, Laura married John Martinez. They settled in the north Denver metro area and started raising their family, first with Lisa born in 1961 and then Stevan in 1962. 

Laura’s professional career started at Gates Rubber Company, fondly remembered by her children as having the best employee Christmas parties when each employee’s child received an appropriate age gift. She retired from Gates with 30+ years of service. Concurrently, Laura worked with Citi Corp, retiring from that position after 25 years of service.

 After moving to Lakewood CO, she started attending Mile Hi Church of Religious Science and soon volunteered supporting the Pastors and Office Staff. She was offered a full-time position as the Administrative Assistant to Dr. Marjorie Staum, who was in charge of in-house educational training classes. This position provided Laura with work that fed her soul, while making good use of her organizational skills and the interpersonal joy she brought to the organization during the 12 years she gave before her final retirement. 

At a Retirement Ceremony she was recognized for her dedication and work ethic by being honored with Emeritus status, the first lay employee to earn this honor. 

Laura always loved to do crafts and later in life her true artistic talent shone brightly in her painting and coloring activities while in assisted living. She was a constant presence in the craft room and loved participating in holiday arts & crafts and the occasional Bingo game. 

Laura is survived by her sister Mary Ann Wisehart (Roger) of Broomfield, CO, her daughter Lisa Flanigan (Tim) of Erie, CO, her son Stevan Martinez of Las Vegas, and her grandchildren Keiran Flanigan of San Marcos, CA, Briana Flanigan of Erie, CO, Claire Rathbun (Seth) of Loveland, CO, and Shayna Flanigan of Erie, CO. Laura is also survived by six great-grandchildren. 

Should you wish to give a contribution in her memory, please consider Hover Senior Living Community, 1380 Charle Dr., Longmont, CO 80503, Attn: Lisa Bryant, or an organization of your choice.