Roberto Zarate Jr.

At the age of 52, Junior leaves behind two children, Raymond (22) and Helena (21). Raymond and Helena currently reside in Minnesota and are horrified by the loss of their father. They describe their father as charismatic, hardworking, and a person who always wanted to make others laugh. Junior is the oldest of four brothers, and is the sixth child of nine to Roberto and Maria Zarate (both deceased). He has five older sisters, Martha (deceased), Graciela, Teresa, Lupe and Gloria and three younger brothers, Jose, Ygnacio and Juan. He was born in El Paso, Texas on June 30,1968, and the family later moved to Denver, Colorado in the early 1970’s. While growing up in Denver, Junior became an avid Denver Broncos and Denver Nuggets fan who is remembered for being adamant about watching each and every game. In August of 1989, to demonstrate his dedication to his country, Junior entered and served in the United States Navy. After being honorably discharged from active duty, he chose to enter the Navy Reserve. Due to his hard-working nature and willingness to dedicate his life to help others, he was even awarded a bronze medal honoring his service. Most recently, to continue his devotion to help others, he worked in maintenance at a hotel and often volunteered with other veterans. Junior was the individual who was called upon to make sure everything worked smoothly. Junior will forever and always be missed, loved and cherished."