Year Inducted: 1980
Nominated By: Tony Lagoni and Donald "Corky" Madrid
Sports Competed In: N/A
Athlete, Coach or Contributor: Contributor
His Life:
● Born to immigrants from Mexico and grew up in the barrio of "Salao" or Salt Creek - a community of poor, Mexican immigrants.
● Grew up durng "The Great Depression" and the children were forced to create their own entertainment since there were no organized recreational programs at this time.
● The six boys of the family could be found playing a competitive game of softball with other youngsters in the community.
● The sport (softball) became a favorite pastime for many a youngster during those years.
● Became an avid fan of professional baseball players and coaches.
Coaching Career:
Began participating actively in softball and boxing during his teenage years.
Contributions:
Director of the Fulton Heights Recreation Program:
● Gave the children in the Salt Creek area a sense of achievement through participation in sports.
● At first - being a director - was voluntary...Continued in this capacity until it became a paid position.
● In the early years there was not much interest from the parents and many times all of the activities were his responsibility.
● If someone would hit the ball over the fence, he would chase after it while trying to officiate at the same time.
● His determination, courage and confidence in what he was doing kept him in there working.
● His goals for the youngsters of the Salt Creek Area have become a reality during the years - providing recreational programs which would keep the boys and girls off the streets and direct their energies into competitive, constructive activities such as softball, basketball, football, and boxing.
● Countless youngsters have been influenced by the enthusiasm he displays for sports and good sportsmanship.
● Seen boys and girls begin participating in sports at the early age of seven years and became so adept at playing that they became star athletes during their high school days.
Honors:
Served in the U.S. Army 1943-1946.
Occupation:
Worked for 36 years at the Colorado Fuel and Iron (C.F.& I) and 29 years as the Director of Fulton Heights Recreation Program.
Personal:
Lived in Pueblo with his wife Patricia...Passed away on May 23, 1995.
