Louis J Lave

On the evening of January 13, 2025, Louis Julian Lave (Louie), a cherished son, father, brother, companion and friend, passed away peacefully at Sangre de Cristo Hospice House located in Pueblo, Colorado. He was 66 years old. Louie was often recognized as a sharp-dressed man with captivating looks to match. His good looks were complemented by his generous heart, and the innate ability to light up any room he entered. Louie was also known to be a bit of a rebel and lived his life accordingly. This would also be combined with his profuse sense of humor and abundant compassion and loyalty to his family and friends and to many others less fortunate. In his younger years Louie found fun hanging out and playing outdoor games and sharing stories, adventures and laughs with his three brothers and neighborhood friends. Although, as older brothers often do, he seldom included his little sister Arlene in his social circle. However, because he was her older brother, he did feel it was his responsibility to always know her whereabouts as you could often hear him yell out, “Where’s Pancha,” as he would so lovingly call her. Louie also enjoyed foraging throughout the ditches near City Park and collecting as many golf balls as he could find to cleverly sell and make extra spending money for the day. Lou found joy in simple pleasures. Embracing life, he sought adventure and laughter, while often sharing a few jokes or a story with friends while sitting around a campfire enjoying a backyard BBQ and a few cold ones. Some of Louie's fondest memories were spent with his mother Matilda (Tillie), as they would occasionally pack a lunch, a couple of trusty poles and go fishing together on the shorelines of Pueblo finest fishing holes and lakes. Although, regardless of the fact that his mother would often out fish him with her staggering angling skills, Louie immensely enjoyed their time together nonetheless. Louie remained in Pueblo throughout his lifetime and after finding his way into the construction industry. He later discovered his true calling in the colorful kitchens of Pueblo, where he worked to perfect the art of culinary cooking. Throughout his life, Lou's affinity for cooking blossomed into a pleasurable passion. He believed that good food brought people together as he took great joy in cooking for friends and family. Among his many amazing self made recipes, his signature Menudo became legendary in the hearts of those lucky enough to enjoy it. Louie also loved spending time with his grandchildren. Known for grandpa visits, he arrived with gifts and plenty of sugar and candy for all, while endearingly leaving his own children with hyper and overstimulated munchkins. Louie spent the remainder of his life visiting family and friends. He and Laurine would often share many treasured moments together while enjoying the small pleasures in life. During the summer of 2021 Louie’s health took a turn for the worse, which often kept him at home when not attending crucial medical appointments. Drawing closer with his younger sister Arlene “Pancha,” who he would now spend plenty of time with, as she lovingly became his caretaker throughout these difficult years. When resting at home, he would enjoy reminiscing while in the company of others, cooking (when able), and sharing his amazing recipes, watching movies, and often spending time with his companion Laurine, his sister Arlene, his 2 brothers Ernie and Anthony, his daughter Linda and his grandchildren. Louie was very much loved, cherished and cared for during his final days. Louis is now reunited in eternity with his mother, Matilda Avila Lave; father, Ernest Lave; his youngest brother, Jessie Benjamin Lave, Louis/Laurine’s; son, Carlos Lave; step son, Clinton Jordan Jr. and Rose Molina; his former wife and mother to his two surviving children. Also preceded in death by his maternal grandparents Julian and Luz Avila, and his paternal grandparents, Simon and Francis Lave. Louis is survived by his beloved children, daughter, Linda Lave and son Julian Lave; his life partner for over 30 years, Laurine Jordan; brothers, Ernest and Anthony Lave; sister, Arlene F. Lave, and his three beautiful granddaughters, Jasmine, Chloe and Zahara and four wonderful grandsons, Oiseau, Tommy, Jordan and Xavier. A private family “Celebration of Life” will be held in lieu of funeral services. In remembrance of Louie’s life and love, the family asks that any charitable donations be made to: The Joni Fair Hospice House, 1107 Pueblo Blvd Way, Pueblo, CO. 81005 The Lave Family would also like to extend a special thank you to Roselawn Cemetery and to all those who expressed their sympathy, friendship, love and prayers. Also, to The Joni Fair Hospice House, whose amazing team provided such compassionate care during such a difficult time, Rest peacefully, Louie. You will always be remembered and forever missed.

Louis J Lave

July 8, 1958 - January 13, 2025