Jean M. Brown: 1930 – 2025
In loving memory of Jean Brown Jean Brown; a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished grandmother, and great-grandmother who passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 20, 2025, at 6:42 a.m. with her family present. At 94 years old, Jean’s gentle spirit, boundless kindness, and unwavering faith in our lord and savior Jesus Christ enriched the lives of all who knew her.
Born in 1930 in Wahoo, Nebraska, Jean — originally known as Jean Mary McKown — experienced firsthand the challenges of the Great Depression and the impact of Pearl Harbor. Growing up in North Platte, Nebraska, she proudly served as a member of the Canteen Crew, providing food and drink to soldiers on their way to war. She graduated from North Platte High School in May 1948. That same year, Jean married Charles Everett Lane, beginning a lifelong journey of love and resilience.
The couple welcomed their first child, Mike Lane, on February 13, 1950, and after Charles graduated from Kearney State in June 1953, the family moved to Michigan. In 1964, when Charles secured a position with Colorado State University, the family relocated to Fort Collins, Colorado. Following her divorce from Charles in 1972, Jean embraced a new chapter while working for the Fort Collins School District.
In 1978, she married Clint Brown and moved to Cheyenne, Wyoming. Jean’s remarkable career in real estate spanned decades. She initially practiced in Cheyenne before moving to Torrington, Wyoming, for several years, then returned to Cheyenne, where she maintained her real estate license until the age of 93. Her expertise and dedication were recognized when she was honored with the Real Estate Emeritus Status Award at the Wyoming State Convention in 2017 for 40 years of service.
Beyond her professional achievements, Jean was deeply committed to her community. She was an active volunteer and an ardent supporter of numerous charity organizations. Her positive influence extended into the real estate world and beyond, touching countless lives with her generosity and warmth. A lover of the outdoors, Jean pursued her passions with enthusiasm. She enjoyed hunting — treasuring a memorable safari to Africa — as well as fishing, skiing, and traveling. Her adventurous spirit and love for nature inspired many, and her nickname, “Ninja Grandma,” affectionately reflected her strength and determination. Jean also provided unwavering support to her husband during his service with the Civil Air Patrol Search and Rescue, embodying the spirit of community service and sacrifice.
Jean is survived by her children: Mike and Cheryl Lane of Florence, Alabama; Chris and Roger Simmons of Loveland, Colorado; Scott and Lauri Lane of Elizabeth, Colorado; Ann and David Townsend of Denver, Colorado; Chuck and Judy Lane of Cheyenne, Wyoming; Kenneth Brown of Torrington, Wyoming. She also leaves behind 17 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren, each a testament to her lasting legacy of love, kindness, and adventure.
Jean’s life was one of service, resilience, and joy a beacon of light to her family, friends, and community. Her legacy of kindness, adventure, and steadfast faith will forever inspire those who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered. A celebration of Jean’s life as Jean requested will be held at a later date with her family. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a charity close to your heart.
Marion Peery Kissel: 1930 – 2025
Marion (Joan) Peery Kissel, 94, of Cheyenne, Wyoming — beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother — passed peacefully from this earth on February 18, 2025.
She was born on December 8, 1930, in Memphis, Tennessee, the only child of Edward Verl Peery and Lealta Corinne (Caldwell) Peery. Her father’s career with the USDA cotton classification center later moved the family to Greenwood, Mississippi.
Marion attended Greenwood High School, graduating in 1949. She went on to complete two years of studies at the Mississippi State College for Women, where she participated in the Women’s Athletic Association in basketball and was selected to the Sophomore Honor Society.
She met and fell in love with Harold (Hal) Arthur Kissel from Indiana, a young Air Force cadet pilot stationed in nearby Greenville. They were married in Greenwood on April 10, 1954. The couple had three children (Steve, Kathy and Linda) and celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary in April of 2024.
Marion was a busy homemaker and dedicated military wife, moving with their young family to Louisiana, Texas, California, the Philippines, New Jersey, and eventually to Cheyenne where they settled in 1964.
In 1971, Marion and Hal bought Mountain Meadow Cabins in the Snowy Range Mountains, where she helped run the resort during the summers. She later worked as a secretary for First Baptist Church of Cheyenne, the Wyoming Department of Education and for the Wyoming State Legislature.
Marion was active in her church communities as well as social and political organizations. She was proud to serve as president of the Laramie County Republican Women’s Association, the Civic League and the X-JWC Women’s Club. She also served multiple terms as a delegate to the Wyoming Republican Convention and as a Wyoming Republican Committeewoman.
She loved living in Cheyenne, and she and Hal also relished traveling together, frequenting their timeshares in Hawaii and going on several cruises, including a 110-day, around-the-world cruise. She was a talented painter and prolific crocheter, giving dozens of her creations to family, friends and charity organizations.
Marion enjoyed entertaining her family and friends and will always be remembered for her feisty spirit, her Southern expressions, her colorful style, her love for her family, and her strong faith. We trust that she is now with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, delighting in the incredible gardens and reuniting with loved ones in her heavenly home.
Funeral services will be held at Cheyenne Memorial Gardens on February 24, 2025 at 2 p.m., officiated by Rev. Richard Gilbert.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in Marion’s honor to the Red Cross or a charity of one’s choice.
The family would also like to thank the staff of Primrose Retirement Community for their compassionate care and support shown to Marion for the past six years.
Marion is survived by her loving husband, Hal Kissel (95); children: Steve Kissel, Kathy (John) Moore, and Linda (Ray) Beattie; grandchildren: Dylan Kissel, Madison Kissel, Chris (Sara) Hall, Heather (Steve) Sandifer, Michelle (Nick) Bulkowski, Bradley (Natalie) Beattie; great-grandchildren: Caden Hall, Cash Hall, Emma Sandifer, Madelyn Sandifer, Liam Bulkowski, Keir Bulkowski, and Naomi Beattie.
Marsha McCune: 1950 – 2025
Marsha McCune, a beloved resident of Cheyenne, Wyoming, passed away on February 17, 2025, at the age of 74. Born on September 24, 1950, Marsha’s life was one of dedication and warmth, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the pleasure of knowing her.
For an impressive 48 years, Marsha worked at Laramie County Community College (LCCC) as the head of their Accounting Services office. Her unwavering commitment to her career was matched only by her exceptional kindness and care for those around her. In 2019, she became the oldest employee, term wise, to retire from LCCC, a testament to her enduring spirit and dedication.
Marsha’s personality shone brightly; she was the kindest, loveliest person anyone could ever meet. Her smile possessed the extraordinary power to light up the dimmest room, inspiring joy and comfort in everyone. With the patience of an angel, she was always one of the first to lend a helping hand to those in need. It can rightfully be said that no one ever spoke a harsh word about her, as she embodied grace and compassion in every interaction.
A passionate enthusiast of life, Marsha had many interests that brought her joy. She was an ardent rodeo fan, attending Cheyenne Frontier Days each year, where she delighted in the thrill of the events. She cherished walking through the Native American Village and was captivated by the breathtaking aerial displays of the USAF Thunderbirds. Furthermore, Marsha’s love for reading filled her life with adventure through fiction novels. Halloween held a special place in her heart, as she delighted in seeing children from her neighborhood donning costumes, which always brought a smile to her face.
Marsha is survived by her loving husband of 47 years, Michael McCune, who will miss her dearly. She was a dedicated mother to her daughter, Michelle McCune; and son, Mason McCune; and a proud grandmother to her three beautiful grandchildren: Josiah Rogers, Maliyah Rogers, and JaCier Dorsey. Her family, along with her brother-in-law, Craig McCune; and sister-in-law, Rhonda McCune, will continue to carry her memory forward, cherishing the moments they shared.
She now joins her parents, Archibald and Florence (Werner) Renschler; and her brother, Douglas Renschler, in eternal peace. Marsha’s legacy of love, light, and laughter will remain etched in the hearts of all who knew her, forever reminding us of the beauty that one person can bring to this world. Her spirit will continue to inspire kindness and joy in the lives she touched, ensuring that she will never be forgotten.
Steve Gerry Pino: 1957 – 2025
Steve Gerry Pino, a loving husband, father, grandfather, and loyal friend, passed away suddenly on February 24, 2025, in Cheyenne, Wyoming, the community that he proudly called home for his entire life. Born on August 2, 1957, to Arturo and Eva Pino, Steve embodied a spirit that was both welcoming and kind, endowed with a personality that could light up any room.
He traveled through life not just as an ASE certified mechanic, revered for his hands-on skills and dedication, but also as a familiar face behind the wheel of a Napa delivery truck. Those who knew him remember his passion for tinkering with cars — he was especially proud of his restored 1962 Impala. When he wasn’t hard at work, you could find him in the kitchen, cooking up hearty meals for family gatherings, with his stacked enchiladas famously causing a stir. Sundays were sacred to Steve, as he looked forward to big family dinners where laughter was always in abundance, and no one was ever left hungry —“No leftovers!” he would insist cheerfully.
Steve had a unique charm, a voice that resonated with a deep warmth, and a mischievous wit that made him unforgettable. His playful banter often saw him calling people by quirky nicknames like “Rambo,” “Chuck,” “Bob,” or “Bootsie.” More than just a conversation starter, his one-liners became part of the fabric of his friendships, with every question curiously answered with “Taco Bell” or “Pizza Hut.” Friends who would call to check in were greeted with a casual “Just kickin’” followed by a heartfelt invitation to “Cruise by.”
His enthusiasm extended beyond his culinary delights to a passion for watching the news and sharing a good laugh at America’s Funniest Home Videos. A true collector, he cherished his coins, tins, and old die-cast cars, each piece holding a special story from his life.
Steve’s pride stemmed largely from his family. He and his beloved wife, Mary, raised their children with love and care, setting a foundation for future generations. His legacy is cherished by his children: Joseph (Thora), Sara, Liz (Blake), Katrina (Brian); grandchildren Eric (Jasmine) Zuniga, Elizabeth (Jacob) Tufts, Troy (Stephanie) Zuniga, Jillian Pino, Caleb Hensley, and Chloe (Brenden) Frentheway; along with six great-grandchildren who were adored deeply. He held dear the bonds formed with his nieces and nephews, celebrating the richness of family.
Tragically, Steve’s heart broke when he lost Mary, his love and companion for so many years. In the wake of her passing, he left us too soon, his spirit undeniably tied to his beloved wife.
Steve is also preceded in death by his parents, Arturo and Eva; and his extended family; his parents-in-law, Darleen and Milton; his late brother, Lawrence; as well as his late sister-in-law, Stacy; and niece, Vanessa.
In remembrance of Steve’s vibrant spirit, a Prayer Service will be held on February 28, 2025, at 6 p.m. at Schrader, Aragon and Jacoby Funeral Home, followed by a Funeral Service at St. Mary’s Cathedral on March 1, 2025, beginning at 10 a.m. Afterward, friends and family are welcome to gather at the funeral home from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Though he has left this world, the laughter, the love, and the cherished memories he created will remain in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know him. Steve will be profoundly missed, but we celebrate the life of a man who brought joy and kindness into the lives of many.
Loyola Valdez: 1927 – 2025
Loyola (Lucero) Valdez, born on April 3, 1927, in Ledoux, New Mexico, passed away on February 16, 2025, in Cheyenne, Wyoming. She was the second-youngest of four children to Eduardo and Eugenia Lucero, yet the last surviving member of the Lucero siblings —outliving her beloved husband, Vialquin, by six years. From her mother, Eugenia, Loyola inherited a strong commitment to her family, both immediate and extended, and she proudly carried the Lucero family name throughout her life, being a source for family history.
A graduate of St. Mary’s High School in Cheyenne, Loyola married Vialquin on November 20, 1948, and together they built a remarkable 70-year union. One of the ways they nurtured their bond was through nightly prayer; each evening at 7 p.m., they tuned in to EWTN for the Rosary, firmly believing it was a live broadcast—despite it being the same service every night. This shared devotion was an important part of their faith and bond.
Loyola spent over two decades working as a florist and bridal consultant at the House of Flowers/Bridal Shoppe before eventually retiring to care for her three granddaughters. This choice reflected her deep commitment to family, as she wished them to grow up under the loving guidance of their grandparents.
Known for her good head for numbers, Loyola’s life was also marked by strong convictions and an independent spirit. Whenever someone questioned her beliefs, she’d flash a determined look and say, “Let me tell you something…,” a signature phrase that conveyed just how firmly she stood by what she knew. Alongside her involvement in the VFW, she served as an Election Judge for 20 years. As a member of the Latin American Federation, Loyola enjoyed socializing with friends while advocating for greater educational opportunities within the Hispanic community. She also instilled this same passion in her daughters, encouraging them to pursue learning however they could.
She is survived by her four daughters: Mary Paiz (Sam), Lorraine Salazar (Bob), Debbie Valdez-Ortiz, and Valerie Roybal (Fred); her five grandchildren: Sarah (Phil) Schabron, Anthony (Edie) Paiz, Carly (Nick) Cosand, Briana (Jamis) Lopez, and Amber Roybal; and three great-grandchildren: Brynlee and Brielle Schabron, and Ezequiel Paiz. Loyola was preceded in death by her husband of 70 years, Vialquin Valdez; her son-in-law, George Ortiz; her parents, Eduardo and Eugenia Lucero, Gregorio (Ed), Manual (Pat) Lucero and Cessie Gonzalez.
A Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, March 21, 2025, at 11 a.m. at St. Mary’s Church, followed by interment at Olivet Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Joseph’s Food Pantry or the Vialquin A. Valdez Memorial Scholarship through the HOPE organization.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to Betty Fanning, whose care and compassion before Loyola moved to Life Care made her like a daughter, and to the Sandoval family, who were always there to lend a helping hand while she was at Life Care. A heartfelt appreciation also goes to the staff of Life Care of Cheyenne, whose dedicated care and kindness provided comfort to Loyola.
