Michael Leo Lorenzo

Mike, 78, of Commerce City, Colorado, returned to the Lord on August 19, 2025. 

Born in Las Vegas, New Mexico in 1947, Mike was the youngest child of Rosario Alires and Luis Lorenzo. He attended East Las Vegas schools and moved to Commerce City, Colorado with his new bride in 1967. He worked for 35 years and retired as Shop Foreman from Trailer Services Inc.

 In 1963, Mike met the love of his life, Viola Ann Lorenzo, in a serendipitous moment when she and her mother were searching for wild spinach and accidentally drove down his family’s driveway, finding Mike working on his car. Excited to begin their lives together, they were married on July 30, 1966. 

Mike and Viola built a beautiful life together, raising three children who meant the world to them. Michael was born in 1967, followed by Mark in 1968, and Melissa in 1977. Their years were filled with camping trips, vacations, family gatherings, and countless cherished memories. 

Though Mike loved fishing, hunting, wood carving, and spending time in the mountains, his favorite role began in 1989 when he became a grandfather. He treasured every moment with his grandchildren and embraced the name “Papa” with pride and joy. In 2013, the birth of his first great-granddaughter marked the beginning of a new generation of girls who lovingly called him Papa. 

The Lorenzo family shared their home with many beloved pets over the years, including dogs, cats, birds, and fish. Two of Mike’s most cherished companions were Tasha, a Pomeranian the family had for 14 years, and Bandit, a Shih Tzu. 

Mike formed many lifelong friendships and was known for his loyalty and generosity. These relationships led to countless celebrations, vacations, camping trips, and godchildren, with his compadres remaining inseparable throughout their lives.

 Faith was the cornerstone of Mike’s life. He believed God gave him ten rules to live by, and he strived to honor them every day. His devotion to his church and community was evident through his lifetime membership in the Knights of Columbus and his leadership and volunteer work at his parishes. 

From a young age, Mike displayed creativity and artistic ambition. He created many pieces throughout high school and continued his passion through home projects, iron and welding work, custom hand-tied fishing flies, and, in retirement, carved canes and wooden art. 

Mike will always be remembered for his kind heart, infectious sense of humor, and ability to turn strangers into friends. His love and devotion to family and friends were unwavering, and he will be deeply missed. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who loved him. 

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Luis and Rosario Lorenzo, and siblings Luisa Montano, Pasqual Lorenzo, Connie Romero, Mary Duran, and Antonia Apodaca. He is survived by his beloved wife Viola Lorenzo; children Michael Lorenzo (Jan), Mark Lorenzo, and Melissa Lorenzo (Eric Chowning); grandchildren Amanda Hua (Mike), Taylor Lorenzo (Tyler), Christa Lorenzo (Aaron), Angelo Lorenzo (Brittney), and Nicholas Lorenzo (Paola); and great-granddaughters Talia Ray, Abagail, and Molly Hua. 

A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church in Welby, Colorado.