A Quarterly Publication of the Commerce City Historical Society(Oct. - Dec. 2016) Winter 2016

Volume 7, Issue 4

From Time to TimePreserving the history of Commerce CityBecause history matters!

CCHS selection for the best houses with Christmas Lights for 2016 more pictures on pages 8 and 9

10046 Fraser

P. 2, From Time to Time, Spring 2016From Time to Time NewsletterA Quarterly Publication of the Commerce City Historical Society6505 E. 60th AvenueCommerce City, Colorado 80022

Board MembersEsther Hall, President, 303-249-1930Pam Meier, Vice President, 303-901-7486Debra Bullock, Secretary/Treas., 303.946.3426Sheila Harris, Membership, 720.939.0582Reba Drotar, Historian, 303.921.1972ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERSJoAnn Stevenson, Casey Hayes, Janet Union, Stephen Kreutzer,Thelma Cole

Submissions forNewsletterDebra BullockPhotos & StoriesJanet Union, Editor303.288-4768 orunionnorm@qwestoffice.net

Commerce City Historical SocietyTwitter: cchistoricalsociety@yahoo.comFacebook: Commerce City Historical SocietyWebsite: cchistoric.comEmail: cchistoricalsociety@yahoo.comAddress: 6505 East 60th Avenue,

Commerce City, CO 80022Phone: 303-288-2590

Museum DonationsJan - Sept. 2016 - $65.00

Museum VisitorsOct. - Dec. - 2016 - 71

CCHS Board Members comment on 2016Esther Hall, President

This last year has been busy with the off-site display cabi-nets, dedication of parks and groundbreakings in the city.Documentation is vital in our City's history. Working withthe schools on the coloring book contest, the book distribu-tion has again been rewarding and I loved working with ourvolunteers.  Again, plans for the casino bus trips, luncheonand events of interest are a priority for our members andcommunity.  Thanks to all who helped to make this happen. Debra Bullock, Secretary/Treasurer

We had a great 2016. In January we started a committeeto record all the history for the fire department to help withthe displays in their new administration building. We havebeen working on this all year and getting close to completionon this project. We have had 2 ACHS classes use the mu-seum to plan their class reunions and host some events at themuseum. In February, the Denver History Museum bus tourcame to visit. We received the Quality Community Founda-tion grant to help us with our coloring book distribution pro-ject that we do every April. Our annual luncheon was heldin May. We took two trips to Central City as fundraisers(May and September). We delivered our reading books tothe 3rd graders. We had two yard and plant sales. Many ofour members attended the city events, open houses and ou-treaches. We did several history presentations and put toget-her several new history displays with items that peopledonated. We continue to raise money to fund our museumthrough the memberships, fundraisers and grants. None ofthese events could happen without our volunteers. Thankyou to all of our members and volunteers who help us con-sistently. A special thanks to the volunteers that work at themuseum. In 2017 we are going to be open 6 days a weekand we look forward to many more organizations visiting themuseum. I am grateful for our Board of Directors and Advi-sory Board members who consistently work to keep our mu-seum running.

Pam Meier, Vice President"As we reflect on 2016 we have much to be thankful for.

Such as the group of dedicated volunteers who believe thatthe rich history of Commerce City must and will be preser-ved, as they, themselves, make history. In holding the mu-seum open every Saturday, they made it possible for a greatnumber of visitors to stop by and view the diverse and everchanging displays. If you were not able to visit the museumon a Saturday last year, you will now have the option of ma-king a drop-in visit on many weekdays." 

Sheila Harris , Membership DirectorFirst off, I would like to thank the Commerce City Histo-

rical Society for electing me to join their team.I have made many new friends since I have taken the posi-

tion of membership director. I believe that through the hardwork of everyone involved our membership has also grown.I look forward to what 2017 holds with all of our events andhope to continue the growth of membership.

Reba Drotar, HistorianFor me, and for the City of Commerce City, 2016 has

been one of the busiest. It has been a year filled with bothexcitement and sadness. For instance, there were manygrand openings and new partnerships of businesses and ex-traordinary events like the ground breaking of the new Com-merce City Recreation Center in the northern part of the Cityand the new South Adams County Fire Department’s Head-

Museum VolunteersDebra BullockRon Brown Esther HallMichael ScanlonSheila HarrisKristi DouglasReba DrotarJoAnn HardtRene’ BullockSteve DouglasHester BonnellCharlene KittingerTicen MingiltonPam Meier, Thelma ColeJoAnn Stevenson,Janet Union

Thanks to allCommerce City Histori-

cal Society board mem-bers want to thank all ofour volunteers for themany hours they help withevents, working the mu-seum, moving items, buil-ding displays, donatingitems and always beingengaged.

Heidi Rose-SmithLinda FortneyBob HastingsConnie Hastings

quarters being constructednext to the Civic Center.When you couple that withprogress like the beginningof the widening of High-way 2 and Tower Road,you can see that the City isheaded in the right direc-tion.

The RTD fast tracks isnow completely underway,which will bring unprece-dented easy travel for theresidents of CommerceCity as well as the potentialfor unprecedented changein the areas by the oldAdams City High School.

There were great chan-ges in the administrationand board of the Adams 14School District culminating

with the hiring of new Superintendent Dr. JavierAbrego and appointment of the new board member, JoeDreiling. Then, in School District 27J, we had theground breaking of another beautiful school in Com-merce City. Both the young and young at heart are ta-king full advantage of the wonderful new outdoorswimming pool and the exhilarating and creative pro-grams of the Commerce City Recreation Department.

The CCHS is making great strides in preserving thepast and archiving the present happenings. I am proudbeyond words to call all of the board and regular mem-bers of the CCHS my friends and am astonished at theircommitment, work ethics and what they have all ac-complished. May 2017 be filled with great surprisesand may the Commerce City Historical Society flourishbeyond anyone’s imagination.

If we honor the past, we bring health and know-ledge to the successes of the future.

New Members - Oct. - Dec. 2016Chad Horner Sue HornerJoe and Lilly Roybal

From Time to Time, P. 3

ACMS students are delighted with the CCHS display. These students helped Esther Hall and Ron Brown assemble thedisplay. Ron Brown, CCHS volunteer and he was a long ago student at ACMS.

Volunteerson the left& below.Pictured arejust a few ofour many vo-lunteers.Joann Stevin-son, RonBrown andEsther Hall,President

Above: Joann Hardt, Museum Guide and Joann Ste-vinson, founding President and Advisory Board Mem-

Cultural Council Public ArtDedication at Pioneer ParkNovember 21

Out N About

Buy your copy of the 2017Calendar for $10 each.

P. 4, From Time to Time

Out N About

Santa and Mrs. Claus are escorted into Winter Fest by SACFD firefighters

October 26, Highway 2 widening projectgroundbreaking

HonoringSunshinePlumbing onDec 14,2016 at theSunshine fa-cility onBrighton Rd. Sponsoredby CCBPA.

Reba Drotar and Teri Smith at the WinterFest on Dec. 3, 2016 at Adams City HighSchool.

Coloring table at Winterfest.

Norm and Janet Union at one of the CCHS Tables atthe Winterfest.

Decorated treeswere given tolucky families.The trees werefurnished byCCBPA and de-corated by vo-lunteers.

From Time to Time, P. 5

WE’RE HEADED TO THE HILLS

Cost $10 - Contact Esther Hall or Debra Bullock

for tickets -- 3.249-1930 / 3.946.3426

Leaving Commerce City Museum

(6505 East 60th Avenue) at 1 pm

Get $5 Cash to play and a $5 meal voucher atMardi Gras Casino

COMMERCE CITY HISTORICAL SOCIETY

CASINO TRIP

2017

MARDI GRAS CASINO TRIPSUNDAY, MARCH 12, 2017

From Time to Time, P.6

From Time To Time, P. 7Out N About

Eagle Street (Halloween celebration) at Adams City High School October2016 sponsored by Commerce City Business and Professional Association.Good attendance.

CCBPA After Hour Organizers: KristiDouglas and Reba Drotar.

Commerce City Chamber of Commerce kick-off celebrationat Key Bank. November 2016.

Topping Off Ceremony of new 27J Elementary School in Reunion. Council-man Diaz with his children. New Recreation Center groundbreaking, Reunion

Esther Hall, Janet Swank Union andMichelle Claymore at the Chamberkick-off

P. 8, From Time to Time

Steve Brecheisen and Keith Dipprey, 15333 E. 100th Court

Below: Dean and Geri Frazell, 8706 Ulster St.

Commerce City Historical Society selectsCCHS MANAGES MANY

REMOTE DISPLAYSTHROUGHOUT THE CITY!

There are several displays throughoutCommerce City in addition to the displaysin our museum.

HI-LO CHECK CASHInG

This display will take you through the years of the Hi-

Lo store history.

KEY BANK

Learn how this bank was established. Key Bank is a

Landmark building in Derby and has grown with the

community.

WOODRIDGE CARE CENTER

This display will educate you on how the Veterans

Memorial was planned and built, located in Veterans

Park next to the Commerce City Recreation Center.

WELLS FARGO BANK

You will see a glimpse of the Commerce City history

through the wall murals located in the lobby.

From Time to Time, P. 9

houses with Christmas Lights for 2016

Michael, Jenn and Ian Onstott, 10046 Fraser St.

Adam Torrez, 10153 Fairplay Street

Charter Convention Prior to the Commerce City Charter, the city opera-

ted as a statutory city under the laws of the State ofColorado (State Legislature).

The delegates were elected by the city residents onNovember 4, 1969. They developed the proposedCharter and signed it on March 24, 1970. It was sub-mitted to the vote of the people and an election washeld on May 5, 1970. Most of the delegates had fulltime jobs and it was very difficult to juggle schedulesbut they took the necessary time off to complete thistask. The individuals represented a cross-section ofthe City and expressed many different viewpoints, butcame together with an excellent guideline for the com-mon good of the people of Commerce City.

We have some very old Time Magazines that arefun to look at. They are from the 20's and 30's.

Below: We have some very old Time magazines thatare fun to look at. They are from the 20’s and 30’s.

Stop by the museum tocheck out the Charter Delegate Display

From Time to Time, P. 10

In MemoriamDulcinea (Lucy) Olivas

Dulcinea (Lucy) AuroraOlivas was a loving wifeand mother, born onJan. 13, 1922 in TierraMonte, New Mexico andpassed away on Dec.25, 2016 at home inCommerce City, Colo-rado. She was 94 yearsold, one of 14 childrenborn to Octaviano and

Teodorita Cordova Sandoval.She attended schools in New Mexico and at

the age of 21 married the love of her life, GeorgeM. Olivas. They celebrated their 73rd WeddingAnniversary on Dec. 7, 2016. Together they had10 children, their oldest son, Edward Patrickpassed away as an infant. In 1951 they movedto Brighton, Colorado and then to CommerceCity where they remained to this day.

Dulcinea was mainly a homemaker and raisednine children. She enjoyed gardening; sewing onan Antique Singer pedal sewing machine andquilted by hand, later she enjoyed making andpainting Native American Indian ceramics. Shewon many awards and she was very proud. Shealso enjoyed socializing with friends and familytelling jokes and making people laugh. Her andGeorge were known as excellent dancers andthey always had an audience eager to watchthem. At one point in her life she was actively in-volved with the Commerce City Recreation Cen-ter where she walked 4 miles every other day.

Dulcinea was a great cook and she loved get-ting her family together. For many years she wasactively involved with Our Lady of The Church inCommerce City and was devoted to The SacredHeart of Jesus. She was also a lifelong memberof The Sacred Heart of Jesus Society.

Proceeded in death by her parents, Octavianoand Teodorita Sandoval, 13 Brothers and Sis-ters, Sons, Edward Patrick Olivas, JosephBobby Olivas and Grandson Larry Fred CreasonJr.

Survived by Her Husband - George M. Olivas;Their Children, Georgia Huntington, JosephinePonce, Freddie Olivas, Maxine Alexander,George O. Olivas, Robert Olivas, Rita Olivas-Haynie, Morris Olivas and Numerous Grandchil-dren, Great-Grandchildren and Great-GreatGrandchildren.

Dulcinea was loved by many and will be mis-sed dearly.

Private Memorial and Funeral Services were-held at Olinger Highland Mortuary and Cemeteryin Thornton, Colorado

Leon H. ClapperLeon was born on Oct. 23, 1930 and passed

away on Mon., Jan. 2, 2017.Leon was a resident of Commerce City, CO at

the time of his passing. He was married to Bar-bara.

Memorial Service was Wed., Jan. 11 at Tabor-Rice Funeral Home. Inurnment followed the ser-vice at Elmwood Cemetery in Brighton Colorado.

Calvert, Bob ‘Ug,’ Louisville, COBob Calvert entered into life Sept, 2, 1931,

Louisville, CO.Survived by wife Patricia, two daughters, Kristi

Bowyer and Kim Scaff, two sons-in-law (Chuckand Bill), four grandchildren (Krissy, Kara, Michael,Libby), four great-grandchildren (Braden, Peyton,Jackson, Brooklyn), two brothers (Bill and Mick)and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was born in Great Falls, MT. Because ofWWII, he moved to Cascade Locks, OR and laterto Bend, OR. Near the end of the war, the familymoved to Cheyenne, WY and finally to Denver.

He graduated from Adams City H.S. in 1949. In‘51, he joined the Navy for a 4-year hitch. In 1952,he married Elaine Krogh and had two daughters-Kristi and Kim. In 1956, he started raising hogsand cattle and buying land that he farmed.

He worked very hard and built a successful lifeby being involved in many business ventures. Hewas a member of CC Rotary, Masons and was aShriner. He had Denver Bronco season ticketsfrom 1961.

Elaine passed away in 1986. In 1991, Bob ma-rried Marcella Work who later passed away. Hemet Patricia in 1999 and they married in 2001.

Bob and Patricia enjoyed their life together.They had a wonderful time traveling almost aroundthe world on cruise ships, their favorite mode oftransportation. Bob was funny and fun to bearound and had a contagious zest for life. He wasalways positive, loving and supportive of all theones he loved. He lived life to the fullest, from bu-siness and pigs to Broncos and travel but mainlythe love of his family.

He will be truly missed.Funeral Service: Dec. 7, Olinger Highland Mor-

tuary Chapel, Thornton. Final resting place: Elm-wood Cemetery, Brighton, CO.

Gerald J. Dreiling, Brighton. Colorado pas-sed away on December 23, 2016. Born on June 8,1942 in Wakeeney, Kansas to Michael Dreilingand Josephine Rome. Survived by his wife, Joan;children, Chris (Lee)Casas, Joe (Dora) Dreilingand Pam (Kenny)Schmitt; siblings, Don (Juanita),Laverne and Cathy; 12 grandchildren; 4 greatgrandchildren; and many nieces, nephews andfriends. He is preceded in death by his parents;brother, Leroy; and granddaughter, Jessica.

Vigil Service held on Wed., Jan. 4, 2017 atHoran & McConaty Family Chapel, 9998 GrantStreet in Thornton. Committal Service to follow atElmwood Cemetery, 14800 Brighton Road, Brigh-ton, Colorado.

Dorothy Frieberg, Jan. 24, 1929 -Dec. 14,2016

Virginia Fahrenbruch, 92Nov. 24, 1924 - Dec. 22, 2016

Our mother, Virgi-nia Fahrenbruch wasborn to John andMolly Walesky onNov. 29, 1924 in Ri-verton, WY. Her familymoved to Lovelandwhere she grew into abeautiful youngwoman learning toplay piano and sha-ring her beautiful sin-ging voice in thechurch choir. After graduating from highschool, Virginia worked as a sales clerk atthe J C Penny store in Greeley.

Virginia married Elmer Fahrenbruch onApr. 11, 1944. The couple farmed in Love-land and Eaton for the first ten years oftheir marriage adding four children to thefamily in those years. The family relocatedto Denver in 1954

After buying their first home in Com-merce City, Virginia went to work forThompson Pipe and Steel as an Accoun-ting Clerk. She enjoyed her job and thepeople she worked with, remaining thereover 20 years. During their years in Com-merce City, they made life-long friends andwere active with the South Adams CountyVolunteer Fire Department.

Dad then changed career fields resul-ting in their move to Brighton. Even thoughMom continued working in Denver, she en-joyed their frequent weekend fishing tripsand having family and friends at her home.Mom was a loyal wife giving up her careerto make multiple moves as Dad changedjobs. They lived in Glenwood Springs,Westminster, Wheat Ridge, and settling forseveral years in Goodland, KS. There sheworked for a small business doing book-keeping and related duties.

They moved to Broomfield when Dad’shealth began to fail. Mom remained thereafter Dad’s passing and stayed until ma-king her final move to the Colorado Luthe-ran Home in 2015. There we celebratedher 92nd birthday just three short weeksbefore she went Home to be with our Lordon Dec. 22.

Mom was a sweet and loving soul en-dearing every life she touched. She enjo-yed sewing, crocheting, many styles ofmusic and Bingo, but mostly her 12 grand-children, 24 great grandchildren and sevengreat-great grandchildren. She is survivedby her sister Elsie (Kenneth) Homyak, sonHarold (Hal) and wife Jackie, daughterNorma (Richard) Mashburn, son Thomas(Linda) and daughter Karen Stark. Shewas preceded in death by husband Elmerand great-granddaughter Jennifer Troupe,one sister Rosie and two brothers - Harryand Victor.

Age 87 of Hender-son, CO. She is pre-ceded in death byhusband, PastorHerbert Frieberg.Survived by childrenPaul; Ann; William(Joni) and Joan Mi-chel and 4 grand-children Alyssa,Danielle (Greg), Ian

and Justin. Services were held at Peace Lutheran

Church.

From Time to Time, P. 11

In MemoriamBeverly Ann Walker, Oct. 24, 1930 - Nov.28,2016, Commerce City, Colorado

Arrangements under the direction of Olinger High-land Mortuary & Cemetery, Thornton, CO.

Shirley Mae Jeffrey, Commerce City, Coloradopassed away Nov.30, 2016 in Commerce City surroun-ded by her loving family. Shirley was born on Dec. 24,

1924 in Denver, Colo-rado to Herbert andHelen (Murphy) Lally.She married SamuelJeffrey and because Sa-muel served in the mili-tary, they raised theirfamily throughout theUnited States andJapan. Shirley beganher career during WWIIas a nurse and obtained

her RN after the war ended. Her love for helping peo-ple extended to animals as well. Shirley had manyfour-legged family members that she cared for andnurtured. Shirley was preceded in death by her lovinghusband Samuel and grandson Sean Patrick Rogers.She is survived by her daughter, Brandi; son Samuel(Donna); six grandchildren; ten great grandchildren;and many other relatives. She will be missed by allwho knew and loved her.

Visitation held Dec 4 from 1 - 5 pm at Olinger High-land Mortuary,10201 Grant St, Thornton, Colorado.Father Martin Lally of Holy Family Parish officiated atfuneral services on Mon., Dec. 5 at 10:00 am also atOlinger Highland Mortuary.

Arrangements under the direction of Olinger High-land Mortuary & Cemetery, Thornton, CO.

Anthony James AlbornozOct. 10, 1994 - Dec. 2,2016, Age 22.He was the oldest of fourchildren. Anthony went toAdams City High Schooland worked at AZ Cableand Wire.

Anthony was passionateabout his music, especiallyTechN9ne. He loved goingout and hanging out withfamily and friends. Despitethe young age of 22, he

lived life to the fullest. Anthony always had a radiantsmile on his face.

He is preceded in death by his grandmother HopeTrevino. He is survived by his mother, Ann Renee Tre-vino, stepfather Mike Lamorie, father Harris Albornoz,and brothers Phil and Stephan Apodaca, Isaih Trujillo,and sister Faith Perez.

He will be dearly missed. As our hearts are broken,his love for us, as us for him, was so complete. May hebe at peace.

Juan J. Herrera, Oct. 3, 1975 - Dec.4, 2016Commerce City, ColoradoJuan J. Herrera "Jorge", loving son, father andbrother. He cameinto this world pre-maturely weighingonly 5 lbs and leftthis world prematu-rely. He lovedsports, camping andbeing around thosehe loved. He lovedfootball Sundays,going to the Broncogames with tailga-ting before even if itwere freezing out-side. Although his life was cut short, it was filledwith love, happiness and joy as he loved tolaugh and make people laugh. He is survived byhis Mother and Father, Dora and Arturo HerreraSr, his daughter, Arianna Nicole Craft, his brot-her, Arturo Herrera Jr and his sister Heather He-rrera.

A beautiful soul gone but will live in our heartsforever.

Arrangements under the direction of OlingerHighland Mortuary & Cemetery, Thornton, CO.

Nancy Lee Scholes, Dec. 2016Nancy passed away in December 2016.

Nancy was a resident of Commerce City, Colo-rado at the time of her passing.

She was married to Arthur.Memorial service was Dec. 16, 2016 at Aspen

Magnolia Chapel 6580 E. 73rd Ave. CommerceCity CO 80022.

Ramona Lucio YslasRamona was born on Aug. 19, 1930 and pas-

sed away on Sat., December 10, 2016.Ramona was a resident of Commerce City,

Colorado.Mass of the Christian Burial on December 15,

2016 at Our Lady Mother of the Church, Com-merce City CO 800022. Interment Elmwood Ce-metery.

Shirley Mae JohnsonOct. 5, 1932 - Dec. 15, 2016

Shirley was born Oct. 5, 1932 in Royal Oak,Michigan to Clyde A. Levell and Lottie Mae (Ha-rris) Levell. She married Wayne Johnson ofMcLellan, Arkansas on Aug. 5, 1950.

Preceded in death by parents and husband.She is survived by two children Tami (Mike) Ma-goon and Mike and Kevin Johnson and Sue, fourgrandchildren and nine great grandchildren. Sheloved the Lord and went to meet Him on Dec.15, 2016.

Services: Elmwood Cemetery, Brighton, CO.

Albert Lee Conway, July 28, 1944 -Dec. 13, 2016, Commerce City, CO

CONWAY, Al-bert Lee "Bud",age 72, passedaway with his fa-mily by his sideon Tues., Dec.13, 2016, atNorth SuburbanMedical Centerin Thornton, CO.

He leaves be-hind his compa-nion of 27 years, Patsy Davis; hisdaughters Deborah Brown, Constance(Doug) Lake, and Rebecca (Kyle) Nan-nini; his brother Donald (Terri) Woods;sisters Judy (Darrell) Armstrong and MaryConway; his mother Laura (Detwiler)Conway; nine grandchildren, four great-grandchildren; Patsy's children andgrandchildren; and several nieces, nep-hews, cousins, and friends.He joins his son John Albert "Joal" Con-way; his father Albert Clayton Conway;his mother Hellen (Mitchell) Conway; hissister Francis Bower; and his brotherJohn Conway.

Born in Denver, CO and raised inCommerce City, CO, he spent his youngadulthood in the Air Force and later wor-king as a ranch hand. He then met hiswife and moved to Aurora, IL to raise hisfamily. After divorcing, he settled back inCommerce City where he met his compa-nion, and later caregiver, Patsy.

In addition to spending time with all hisfamily, he was passionate about fishing,his dogs, his trucking business, cars,trucks, motorcycles, gardening, NAS-CAR, and pride in his heritage.A funeral service was held Sat., Dec.17,2016 at the Olinger Highland MortuaryChapel,Thornton, CO.

Paula Marie MiyakeMay 3, 1950 - Dec. 14, 2016Commerce City, Colorado

Paula M. Miyake is survived by hermother, Marlene Bronish; her husband,Rudy; sons Philip (wife Stacie) and Mi-chael; sisters Betty, Mary (husbandGeorge), Connie (husband Wes); sevengrandchildren; three great-grandchildren;as well as many nieces and nephews.

Reception held at: Knights of Colum-bus, Northglenn, CO 80234, 3:30 to 5:30p.m.

Special thank you to the caterer: Bel-tran's Meat Market at 11920 WashingtonSt. in Northglenn, Colorado, 80233.

Mascarenas, AlanzoDied Thanksgiving day - resident AdamsHeights, Commerce City, CO

Dorene DodsonJan. 6, 1919 - Jan. 16,2017

Survived by childrenLarry (Penny) Dodson,Connie Nelsen andRon (Linda) Dodson,grandchildren Kelly

Gaunt, Kenny (Colleen) Dodson, Troy Dodson,Nicole (Brian) Emerson and Aaron (Sarah Davis)Dodson, great-grandchildren Kevin, Jamie, Allie,Logan, and Rowen, and 3 great-great-grandchil-dren. She was preceded in death by her belovedhusband Kenneth, daughter Kaye and her hus-band Don Gaunt and grandson Jerry Gaunt.

Visitation Sat. with services at 11:00am,both at Olinger Crown Hill. She will belaid to rest with her husband at OlingerCrown Hill Tower of Memories.

P. 12 From Time to Time,

January * Established a Neighborhood History Committee –January 16* Class of 1976 – Planning their 40th Class Reu-nion* Established a committee to work with the SACFDfor history and displays

February* February 27 – Denver History Museum tour atthe CCHS Museum

March* Received Quality Community Foundation GrantMarch 2

April* Coloring Book second edition printed and distri-buted to all second grade students (School District14 and 27J) 1000 children April 16, 17* Completed and printed the Spring newsletter

May* From Time To Time Luncheon Sunday May 1,2016* Plant Sale and Garage Sale May 9* Trip to Central City May 17* Coloring contest Winner Presentation at City HallMay 18

June* Hosted table at Neighborhood Outreach – June 9at Reunion

July* Riverside Cemetery Tour – July 23

August* Hosted National Night Out at Our Saviour Luthe-ran Church with the church – Tuesday, August 2,2016* Hosted table at Neighborhood Outreach – {Pio-neer Park) – August 11* Hosted a table at “Back to School Night” atAdams City Middle School, August 29* Completed and printed the Summer Newsletter

* Honest John Presentation - August 13

September

* Hosted a table at the SACVFD SpaghettiDinner, Sat., Sept 10* Central City bus tour – September 11* Commerce City Heritage and Cultural Cen-ter Second Anniversary, Saturday, September17* Hosted 8th Annual CCHS Pioneer PicnicSept 17 at the Museum in conjunction with second anniversary* Participated in the “Meet the Space” locatedat 6601 Colorado Blvd for Con-Cept - Septem-ber 30

October* October 1, Garage Sale at the museum* Presentation to Rotary Club for city history* Participated in the Eagle Street HalloweenHall Walk at ACHS – Oct 26* Participated in the Craft Fair at OSLC – Saturday, October 29

November* Created a 2017 calendar on sale, December1* Completed and distributed Fall Newsletter * Display at Alsup Elementary and Adams CityMiddle School* Monday Nov 21 – Presentation to City Coun-cil for the first year in the museum* City Bus Tour for the CC Leadership pro-gram – November 4

December* Participated in Derby Winter Festival-Dona-ted cookies and sponpored a coloring table -Dec 3* Participated in the CCBPA silent auction atSunshine Plumbing – December 14* Christmas Lights recognition awards

2016 Commerce City Historical Society Accomplishments

From Time To Time, Page 13In Memoriam

Senator Robert MartinezSept. 6, 1943 - Nov. 21, 2016Commerce City, COSenator was a residentof Commerce City, Co-lorado at the time of hispassing.

Bob was a graduateof Holly High School.He attended Lamar Ju-nior College and thentransferred to the Uni-versity of Southern Co-lorado in Pueblo wherehe received his Bache-lor’s degree in Political Science. He then re-ceived his Master’s degree in Sociology fromthe University of Colorado-Boulder. Bob wasalso a graduate of the John F. Kennedy Pro-gram for Senior Executives in State and LocalGovernments at Harvard University.

Memorial service for Senator Bob Martinezheld on Dec. 2 at Our Lady Mother of theChurch in Commerce City. Rosary: 11:00 AMwith Mass following at 11:30. A reception follo-wed.

Robert “Bob” Martinez, a low-key state legisla-tor who served for 20 years and was an advo-cate for Latinos, died Nov. 21. He was 73.

The Democrat, a longtime Commerce Cityresident, served two terms in the state Houseof Representatives and four terms in the Se-nate, leaving the Capitol in 2000 because ofterm limits.

He died last week of unspecified causes.During a 20-year legislative career, Martinez

ascended to the position of chairman of theSenate Democratic caucus during a long pe-riod of Republican control. He also served aschairman of the joint Legislative Audit Commit-tee.

He was a vocal advocate for Latinos’ electo-ral clout and for improvement of the educatio-nal system. He called attention repeatedly tohigh dropout rates in Colorado schools, espe-cially among Latino students.

“Our parents were migrants, and they pus-hed us all to be educated, to become leadersnot followers,” said Angel Marie Sanchez, Mar-tinez’s sister.

He also at times took to the Senate floor tospeak out about incidents tarnishing Latinos.That included taking exception in 1999 to anAurora high school baseball coach’s reported

Betty L. Mathews,

Jan. 19, 1927 -Nov. 12, 2016

Betty L. Mathewsof Commerce City,Colorado passedaway November12, 2016 surroun-ded by her lovingfamily.

Betty was bornJanuary 19, 1927. She married James JuniorMathews and together they raised their childrenin Missouri eventually moving to Colorado. Bettyis survived by her children and grandchildren.She will be missed by all who knew and lovedher.

A visitation held Nov. 17, Olinger HighlandMortuary, Thornton, CO. Funeral was Nov.18 at10:00 am also at Highland.

Alisha Michelle UlibarriApr. 22, 1991 - Nov. 6, 2016, Commerce City,Colorado. Arrangements Olinger Crown Hill Mor-tuary, Cemetery & Arboretum, Wheat Ridge, CO

Henry J. YoungerHenry J. Younger, 84, of Thornton; husband ofTheresa Younger; father of Debi J. (Richard)Crum and Sheri Lee Murphy. Also survived by 4sisters, 2 brothers, 9 grandchildren and 18 greatgrandchildren. Rosary Thursday, 7PM, Horan &McConaty Family Chapel, 9998 Grant Street.Funeral Mass Friday, 11AM, Assumption of TheBlessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church, 2361 East78th Avenue.

Published in Denver Post on Dec. 14, 2016

Hodji Tobias BruinNov. 15, 1972 - Nov. 22, 2016, Commerce City,

ColoradoArrangements

under the directionof Olinger High-land Mortuary &Cemetery, Thorn-ton, CO.

Marylou Elaine CrespinMarylou was born on Nov. 17, 1964 and pas-

sed away on Sunday, Nov. 27, 2016.Marylou was a resident of Commerce City,

Colorado at the time of her passing.She was married to Dwayne.Gathering: Fri., Dec. 9 2016 from 11:00am to

12:00pm Newcomer Funeral Home, LakewoodCO 80226. Service: Fri., Dec. 9 2016 at Newco-mer Funeral Home, Lakewood CO 80226 Inter-ment: Mount Olivet Cemetery, Wheat Ridge CO80033.

comment that most of his school’s students were“Mexicans” and only wanted “to hang out in theparking lot with their gangs.”

Martinez underlined that Colorado’s Mexican-American residents took pride in their heritage —making it as difficult to turn “Mexican” into an in-sult as “Italian,” he said, according to the RockyMountain News’ account at the time.

“It was important to Bob that he be a positiverole model for Mexican-Americans, especiallythe youth,” she said. His family also recalledMartinez’s passion for helping the elderly, vete-rans, children and the homeless.

One year, Martinez was in a store with son Ju-lian when they saw some children buying foodfor their family alone. “He overheard them talkingabout how they wanted (a Sony Walkman) forChristmas,” his son recalled, but their parentscouldn’t afford the gifts. Martinez walked overand bought one for each of them. “I’ll never for-get it,” Julian Martinez said.

Martinez, a Colorado native, grew up as oneof 10 children in tiny Holly, on the southeasternplains. Over his lifetime, he would save twomembers of his family from drowning.

His parents were Benito and Alfreida Martinez.He earned a bachelor’s degree in political

science from the University of Southern Colo-rado in Pueblo, then a master’s degree in socio-logy from the University of Colorado.

Martinez also was known for his subtle senseof humor. Once, he served as governor for 30hours because of administrative changes. “Heliked to say that when he was governor no taxeswere raised and no riots ensued,” Sanchez said

Outside the legislature, Martinez founded theMexican American Policy Institute and the Colo-rado Association of Chicanos in Higher Educa-tion.

When his final term in the Senate was up, theNews noted that Martinez’s tenure was unheral-ded by his colleagues. He said his approachmay have been under the radar, but he was ableto pass an average of three bills a year as amember of the minority party.

“I’m leaving the legislature after doing what Ithink is a good job,” he told the newspaper. “I’mjust not one to trumpet what I am and what I do.”

Martinez is survived by two sons, Julian andGerald; three grandchildren; six siblings; andother extended family members.The Denver Post, Nov. 28, 2016

Genevieve (Genny) SchepkerGenny was born Mar. 7 1950 in Sterling, COand passed awayDec. 26, 2016,

Husband Larryand Genny movedinto their home inAdams City in 1972and lived there untiltheir deaths.

They have oneson Joseph (Chris-tine) Schepker,Thornton , CO;daughters Holly(Troy) Hall of Arvada and daughter Misty(Alan) Scneidt of Henderson.

Genny leaves behind her mother Clara

Headley, Sterling, CO; sisters Judy Fredricksof Nebraska, Olivia Palmer, Nebraska and &Terry Lee, Montana, one brother Kevin Head-ley of Alaska; three granddaughters. twograndsons, and one great granddaughter.

Preceded in death by father Harvey Head-ley, sister Linda Adams and her beloved hus-band Larry Schepker.

Genny was employed at Interect MedicalSupply Company for 34 years as a supervisor.The company closed the day of her service foremployees to attend her service.

Genny Schepker always had an infectioussmile and laugh, loved her family, backyardbird feeders and the Annual Hawaiian Luau’s.Her kindness touched many and was respec-ted by her co-workers and friends.

From Time to Time, P. 14

From Time To Time, P. 15

Commerce City Historical Society

Application for Membership

Annual Dues Please make checks payable to: Commerce City Historical Society,

6505 E. 60th Avenue, Commerce City, Colorado 80022

Individual $10.00 _____(per year) Family $25.00 _____(per year) Business/Corporation $100.00 _____(per year) Life Membership $500.00 _____(one time) Senior Lifetime Membership (Age 65 Plus) $250.00_____(one time)

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DATE PAID________________ How would you like to be notified of meetings and the Newsletter?

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For questions please call 303-287-6747

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Museum address:6505 E. 60th Ave

P. 16, From Time to Time, Summer 2016

The History of Metropolitan State Bank (currently Key Bank)

Metropolitan State Bank was esta-blished in 1950 by a group of local bu-siness men

Some of them were: Floyd Temple-ton, Al Krogh & Herb Hast Sr. The loca-tion of this bank was 6401 East 72ndAvenue (72nd and Locust Street), nowSeguros Insurance.

The 2nd location for the MetropolitanState Bank was located at 7250 Mo-naco Street.

In the fall of 1954, The Agnew familypurchased the bank. The family mem-bers were Kenneth Sr. and OliveAgnew, Charles Mann and Rick andKenneth Agnew Jr.

Kenneth Sr. and Olive Agnew camefrom Sidney, Nebraska in the early 50sand lived in Park Hill. Their sons wereRick and Kenneth. Charles Mann wasan Uncle to Rick and Kenneth Jr.. Ken-neth Sr. retired from John Deere Imple-ment Company. Charles was a banker.Richard was also in banking and Ken-neth Jr. was an Accountant. Orrel Da-niels was their Attorney.

Kenneth Sr., Olive and Charles aredeceased, Richard lives in Lake Ha-

vasu, Arizona and Kenneth livesin Colorado. Orrel Daniels pas-sed away in 2010.

In 1967 the family purchasedland located at 6565 East 73rdAvenue and sold the bank buil-ding located on Monaco Streetto Dr. John Baker.

They developed and excava-ted the land on 73rd Avenueand built a new bank. While ex-cavating they found a landfill fullof trash which had to be clea-ned up.

In 1976 The Agnew familysold the bank to a new group oflocal business men, some ofwhich included LeonardMcCain, Edward Brown, OrrelDaniels, Kenneth Gahagen andIvan Jergensen.

Orrel Daniels was the firstCity Attorney for CommerceTown and later Commerce City,before Bob Gehler was hired.He was also a city attorney forBrighton and Thornton. EdBrown and Leonard McCain

were Attorneys from BrightonOrrel Daniels sold to Kan-

sas City Group and they soldto Omni Bank which wasbought out by the 1st Bank ofMinneapolis, which was ac-quired by Key Bank, in March1995 and is the current banklocated at 6565 East 73rdAvenue. The Bank Manageris Kathy D’Amico. WhenKathy left, Gary Ulam washired. Gary left in December2016. The new manager asof December 15, 2016, isBlanca Zamarripa.

Editor’s note: Can you rememberhow happy all the Derby, AdamsCity, Dupont, Irondale, Rosehill,Monaco and Henderson residentswere when we finally had a bankin town. We all stopped by forthe grand opening or at least thefirst week to open accounts andto look at the new addition to ourcommunity.

Seekingnominationsfor the JeanKlein Angel

awardsThe Commerce City

Historical Society willhost their Annual JeanKlein Angel Awards lun-cheon on Sun., May 7,2017 at the Yellow RoseEvent Center, 6490 E.72nd Place. CCHSneeds some help withthe nominations.

Time is short so sendyour nomination to theCommerce City Histori-cal Society, 6505 E.60th Avenue, Com-merce City, CO 80022.

Museum is open 10 -2, six days a week. Pickup your nomination format that location or callEsther Hall at3.249.1930 or DebraBullock, 3.946.3426.

“The Commerce CityHistorical Society hasinitiated the Jean KleinAngel Award to honorrecipients that havemade contributions oftime and talent to theCity, the people and thearea that profoundly andpositively affected ourhistory.

Jean Klein