Luisa Stafford

Luisa Stafford (née Punzi) was born in Utica, New York to Guiseppe and Pauline on March 15, 1939 and spent her childhood working with her parents and brother, John, on their onion farm in Canastota. She received a full scholarship to attend Eastman School of Dental Hygiene in Rochester, New York and began her career in West Palm Beach, Florida. There, she met her husband, Wayne. They lived in Michigan and California before settling in Basking Ridge, New Jersey, where they raised their sons, Michael (Mike) and Mark. During their childhood, she returned to college and completed a business degree and transitioned to a corporate career as a dental fraud investigator.

Following her retirement in 2004, Luisa moved to Frisco, Colorado. She organized trips and hikes, served as the Summit Seniors Board President, worked part-time at various shops, cross country skied, played tennis, and was recognized as “Senior of the Year.” Her favorite times in the county were spent with her dog, Stella, hiking around Rainbow Lake and walking through town. She was a member of St. John the Baptist in Breckenridge. She also worked with her dear friend, Andy Searls, on the Staying In Summit initiative.

Luisa leaves behind her son, Mark, his wife, Jenny, and their children, Jack and Anna; her son, Mike, his partner, Kristin Hinzman, and his children, Natalie and Annika. She was preceded in death by her husband, brother, parents and beloved dog, Stella.

Her family would like to thank Bristlecone Home Health and Hospice and Lenka’s Loving Care for allowing Luisa to transition at home in Breckenridge.

Please join us for a Memorial Service and luncheon reception on Saturday, May 20,2023, at 11am at St John the Baptist Episcopal Church,100 S. French Street in Breckenridge, Colorado. Free parking is in the rear of the church.

In lieu of food and flowers, Luisa and her family ask that you consider a gift to the Summit County Animal Shelter in her honor (https://summitcountyco.gov/698/donations or P.O. Box 5225, Frisco, CO 80443).

Please share your memories of Luisa and condolences with her family by signing the tribute wall.