Pete Leo Aldana: 1938 – 2025
Pete Leo Aldana, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully at home in Cheyenne, Wyoming, on January 25, 2025. He left this world surrounded by his devoted children at 3 p.m., a time he cherished as the “Hour of Divine Mercy,” which encapsulated his unwavering faith and devotion to the lord.
Born on April 7, 1938, in Granite Canyon, Wyoming, Pete’s journey through life was marked by his boundless spirit of hard work and dedication. He began his career in maintenance at St. Mary’s School/Gymnasium, where he quickly earned the endearing nickname “Mr. Pete,” a title that would follow him throughout his life. For over 30 years, he served as the head of Maintenance for the Laramie County School District #1, overseeing the Admin Building and Storey Gym. Pete’s remarkable commitment saw him never miss a day of work, come rain, snow, or shine, and he often dedicated his evenings to side jobs, ensuring his family’s well-being. His selflessness extended beyond his profession; Pete also devoted countless hours of maintenance service to the Cathedral of St. Mary.
Pete’s character shined through in his infectious laugh, charming smile, and twinkling blue-green eyes. He was known for his gentle spirit, always willing to lend a hand or share what little he had, embodying the true essence of a gentleman. Whether it was playing cards, lifting weights, or saying the rosary multiple times a day, Pete found joy in both the simple pleasures of life and the companionship of family. He was an ardent fan of the Dallas Cowboys and enjoyed attending sporting events for his children and grandchildren, fostering a love for sports within his family.
Throughout his life, Pete had a profound commitment to his Roman Catholic faith, a devotion that defined much of his work and community involvement. He co-founded the Sacred Heart of Jesus Prayer Group with his wife, Susan, in the early 1970s, starting in the basement of their home before relocating to Hartmann Hall, where it thrived for over three decades. Their love for the faith led them to attend numerous national charismatic conferences, culminating in a cherished Apostolic Blessing from Saint John Paul II.
In addition to founding the first Men’s Group at St. Mary’s Cathedral in the early 1980s, Pete contributed significantly to the parish community through various ministries. He diligently served as a Eucharistic Minister and Altar Server for many years, eventually taking on the role of training new Altar Servers. Moreover, he and Susan created lasting traditions within the church, such as decorating the Cathedral for the Advent and Christmas season, famously establishing the 16-foot Christmas Tree as a symbol of hope and life.
Pete is survived by his five children: Monica Galicia (Adam), Mathew Aldana (Denise), LeeAudra Macias, Yvette Fallon (Connor), and Damion Aldana (Allison). His legacy thrives through his 14 grandchildren: Michael, Sierra, Ariana, Justin, Danielle, Natalie, Raquel, Erik, Diana, Lauren, Logan, Nathan, Hailey, and Jenna; and 18 great-grandchildren, all of whom he cherished deeply. He also leaves behind his loving sisters, Mary Puente and Delores “Lola” Kamai; along with sister-in-laws Michelle Cano (Ruben), Frances Frost (Wes), and Nazarena Schell (Ron); and numerous nieces, nephews, and godchildren, who will carry forward his spirit of love and faith.
Pete is preceded in death by his loving wife of 64 years, Susan Aldana;, his parents, Rosendo and Amelia Aldana; his brother, Angel Aldana; his sisters: Cora Sanchez, Matilda “Tillie” Munoz, and Rachel Pacheco; his cherished son, Michael Aldana; his son-in-law, Salvador Macias; and multiple brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law; as well as his beloved mother-in-law, Virginia Sanchez, and father-in-law, Mike Sanchez.
As we reflect on the life of Pete Leo Aldana, we celebrate a remarkable man who embodied love, faith, and dedication. His warm spirit and unwavering commitment to his family and faith community will be cherished and remembered by all whose lives he touched.
The services to honor Pete’s life will be held at St. Mary’s Cathedral in Cheyenne. The Rosary will be prayed on Wednesday February 5th at 7:30pm, with the Funeral Mass on Thursday February 6, 2025 at 10 a.m., and Interment at Olivet Cemetery. Reception to follow in Hartmann Hall at St. Mary’s Cathedral.

Eugene Albert “Gene” Jonart: 1941 – 2025
Eugene Albert “Gene” Jonart, a devoted husband, father, and friend, passed peacefully in his sleep on January 28, 2025, at the age of 83. Born on April 28, 1941, in Butte, Montana, Gene lived a life marked by faith and service.
Gene had a remarkable career with the Bureau of Land Management, where he dedicated 30 years of his life to the stewardship of natural resources. His education in Forest Management from the University of Montana laid a strong foundation for his work in this vital sector.
Gene’s commitment extended beyond his professional life; he served honorably in the U.S. Navy from 1959 to 1964. It was here that he experienced a life-changing moment that deepened his faith in God, shaping his life and his relationships.
A devoted member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Gene actively participated in various organizations including the Knights of Columbus and the Fleet Reserve Association Branch 59. His faith and community involvements were integral pillars of his life.
Gene is survived by his loving wife, Charlene M. Watters Jonart, and their children: Kathleen Jones (Drew), Michael Jonart (Misty), Douglas Jonart (Stacey), Timothy Jonart (Christina), and Paul Jonart (Serra). He was also a proud grandfather to eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, all of whom will cherish his memory.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Desire’ Joseph Jonart and Eugenia Leglise Jonart; a sister; four brothers; and a great-granddaughter. Their legacy endures through the lives Gene touched during his time.
The community is invited to celebrate Gene’s life. A Vigil Service will be held on Sunday February 2, 2025, at Schrader, Aragon and Jacoby Funeral Home in Cheyenne, Wyoming, beginning at 5 p.m. The Funeral Service will take place on February 3, 2025, at St. Mary’s Cathedral at 10:30 a.m., followed by further commemorations at Hartmann Hall, St. Mary’s Cathedral, and concluding with a Graveside Service at Cheyenne National Cemetery at 2 p.m.
Gene Jonart’s legacy of love, faith, and commitment to family and community will be remembered by all who had the privilege to know him.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Knights of Columbus (please make checks to Knights Of Columbus; mail to Casey Club, Knights of Columbus, 507 W 28th St. Cheyenne, WY 82001) or to Saint Joseph’s Food Pantry (P.O. Box 761, Cheyenne, WY 82003).

Kenneth Maynard Kissell: 1936 – 2025
Kenneth Maynard Kissell passed Jan 30, 2025. Ken was born in Kansas on March 1, 1936, in the dust bowl era. He was the ninth of 10 children, grew up in Fort Collins, Colorado and graduated from Fort Collins High School. He had very fond memories of playing football, winning three state football championships during his high school career and spoke of it often. He never missed a FCHS Class Reunion and was one year shy of celebrating 70 years with his classmates.
He attended Colorado A&M before moving to Alaska and was drafted into the Army shortly thereafter. He deployed to Korea and served with the Combat Engineers. After his service, he worked as a large equipment operator, mechanic welder and belonged to the Operating Engineers Union. He also graduated from Cheyenne Aero Tech in 1991 with an Associates in Aviation Maintenance. The years of physical labor took a toll on his body, but that didn’t stop him from building a beautiful log home where he lived for the past 20+ years.
Taking care of him was a fulfilling job. Even on the days he was in excruciating pain, he always expressed his gratitude with please, thank you, and I love you. His positive outlook on life was admirable and will be missed. “Getting old isn’t for pu**ie*” was a common catch phrase, but he genuinely wanted to live to be 110. In the grand scheme of things, he almost made it.
Ken was married to Shirley (Mellies) Kissell for 62 years and had three step children: Vickie Sutton of Carpenter, Wyoming, Cindy Swanson of Cheyenne, Wyoming, and Michelle Jones of Fort Collins, Colorado; and three children with Shirley: Kenny Kissell of LaPorte, Colorado and Kyla Warren of Carpenter, Wyoming, and Kevin Kissell of Fort Collins, Colorado. He also had 12 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; and numerous great-great-grandchildren.
He loved his two little chihuahuas, Jack and Buddy, more than anything. He was so proud of the log home he built, and enjoyed being outside, taking care of his yard and garden and feeding the wild birds.
He enjoyed camping, fishing, hunting, and spending time with family and friends.
The family would also like to thank his caregivers from Synergy and Continue Care and his healthcare team at the Cheyenne VA.
To everyone inquiring about a viewing. @*@*% you. You should have visited him when he was alive. You didn’t hurt anyone but yourself. If you want to blame someone for not allowing you to set foot on his property, ask yourself why you never tried to help him out for the past 20+ years. It was his wish to keep the thieves and moochers away and not give them a chance to steal anything else.

Gary Craig Wendell: 1954 – 2025
Gary Craig Wendell, 70yrs, of Cheyenne, Wyoming passed away on January 26, 2025 at Regional West Hospital in Cheyenne. He was born on September 16, 1954, in Minot North Dakota.
Gary married Karen on August 19, 1978, celebrating 46 years of marriage.
Gary worked 18 years at Consolidated Freightways and finished his career at Union Pacific Railroad. His strong work ethic, attention to detail, mechanical and handy-man talents were appreciated both on and off the job site.
Gary’s quick-witted sense of humor and passions for hunting and motorcycle riding bring cherished memories for all who knew him. Gary was a devoted husband to his wife, Karen, and loving father to his three children.
He was preceded in death by mother, Irene; sister, Lou Ve; brother, Dwayne; and brother, Daryl.
Gary is survived by his brother, Charlie of Marshfield, Wisconsin; sister, Rene of Overland Park, Kansas; wife, Karen of Cheyenne, Wyoming; eldest son, Joshua of Alpine, Wyoming; son, Jesse (wife Kari) of Cheyenne, Wyoming; daughter, Rebecca (husband James) of Council Bluffs, Iowao; and granddaughter, Jersey of Council Bluffs, Iowa.
Join us in celebrating the remarkable life of our cherished & beloved Gary in your own way, as no formal service will be held.