Frank Pantoya, 71, of Rocky Ford, CO, went to be the Lord on Tuesday, April 30th, peacefully, at Memorial Health System, Colorado Springs, CO.

Frank was born in La Junta, CO on September 28, 1947, a son of the late Bessie (Ruiz) and Jesse Pantoya.

Frank graduated from Rocky Ford High School in 1967 and then attended Otero Junior College and The University of Colorado - Denver.

He was the widower of Lynda Matilda (Masias) Pantoya, they were married on Dec. 13, 1969 in Rocky Ford, CO.

He served in the U.S. Army in the Vietnam War.

He was a member of the St. Peter's Men's Organization and served the church as an Eucharist Minister and Catechism Teacher. He was also a member of the Rocky Ford American Legion Post #8.

Frank enjoyed painting, writing, watching movies, walking his dog Petey, music, dancing, riding his scooter around and collecting aluminum cans. He was a faithful servant, loving husband, responsible father, caring grandfather, a loyal friend and was described as a very good, good man. He will be missed by all who knew him.

Daughter Pamela Pantoya, of Rocky Ford, CO;

Daughter Raquel Pantoya, of Rocky Ford, CO;

Sister Eva Lopez of Hercules, CA;

Sister Barbara Martinez, of Rocky Ford, CO;

Sister Josie (Claire) Green, of Rocky Ford, CO;

Brother Jessie (Pat) Pantoya, Jr., of Dearborn, MI.

He is also survived by 6 grandchildren: Anton Pantoya, Izrael Pantoya-Navarrete, Cruz Pantoya-Navarrete, Abram Navarrete, Ezra Navarrete, Shelby Baca-Pantoya; 1 great-grandson: Azariah Navarrete.

Frank was preceded in death by his parents and wife: Lynda.

A Rosary Service will be recited at 10:30 AM on Friday, May 10th, by Inez Cruz. The Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 AM both at the St. Peter's Catholic Church in Rocky Ford with Fr. Paul Ekeh officiating. A Military service will be provided by the Rocky Ford American Legion Post #8. Interment will be in the Valley View Cemetery in Rocky Ford, CO.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Ford - Ustick Funeral Home. Online condolences may be sent to www.fordustick.com.