Ann R. Brgoch 3-1-1924 ~ 1-29-2014
Ann R. Brgoch went to be with the Lord on January 29, 2014. She was born on March 1, 1924, one of seven children, to the union of Malchiore Zanotelli and Theresa Martinelli, in Berwind, CO. Ann was preceeded on death by her husband, Robert, and daughter, Deanna Brgoch Hall. She is survived by children DeEtta Lessar (Tom), Douglas R. Brgoch (Lisa), and Dennis Brgoch (Toni); sister Eda Hamilton (George); eight grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren. Ann graduated from St. Mary’s High School in Walsenburg at the age of 16 and Adams State College at the age of 19. She taught at Alamosa High School for one year before her brother Henry convinced her to join the Navy, which she did in 1944. She served at Dahigren, VA as a Ballistics Specialist. Ann was one of the first women to work in the Pentagon when it opened. After her service to our country she returned to La Veta where she married Bob Brgoch, a local rancher, and began her teaching career. Ann was a devoted educator. She taught mathematics and science at La Veta and Walsenburg for 39 years, always motivating students to do their very best. Ann was named the 1986 Colorado Teacher of the Year, a tribute to her never-ending commitment to teaching. She was highly respected for her knowledge and her dedication to her students and colleagues. Ann’s greatest love was her children and grandchildren. She was extremely influential in molding them into the successful citizens they have become. Her greatest joy was being able to see all of her grandchildren graduate from college. Ann was an extraordinary woman who never met a stranger, was a loyal friend, and was never afraid to speak her mind. All who knew her were blessed to have made her acquaintance.
