Guadalupe "Lupe" Gaona

Guadalupe "Lupe" Barrera Gaona passed away peacefully on September 16, 2025. Born on March 18, 1935, in Reynosa, Mexico, she was the daughter of Felix Barrera and Guadalupe Valdez. Her family relocated to Edroy, Texas, when she was a child, and she attended school there, where she met her future husband, Julio Gaona. The couple married at the church of Our Lady of Guadalupe Mission, where Lupe was a devoted member. Lupe and Julio had seven children and moved to Casper, Wyoming, in 1972, before returning to Texas briefly and ultimately settled in Ranchester, Wyoming, in 1990, to be near their grandchildren. Lupe was a dedicated member of the GI Forum in Casper, Wyoming, and participated in the CCW group in Texas and Ranchester, as well as attending St. Edmunds Church.

Lupe Gaona is survived by her brother, Rogelio Barrera (Norma), and children, Donaciano D. Gaona, Lillian Serna (Juan), Mario Gaona (Nadine), Julie Ann Condelario, Richard Gaona, Gavino Gaona (Jennifer), and Oscar Gaona. Grandchildren, Donaciano D. Gaona III, Christina M. Fauth (Jeff), Juan J. Serna Jr., Steven M. Serna, Christopher Gaona, Evan Condelario, Erika Condelario, Jazmine Kalinoski (Nick), Isabelle Gaona, Ari Gaona, Jordan Alley (Naomi), Aliya Gaona, Leila Lee Gaona, and Julianna Gaona. Great grandchildren, Olivia R. Fauth, Rosalía C. Kalinoski, and two more on the way. Lupe Gaona is preceded in death by her husband Julio Gaona, two infant baby boys, her parents Felix and Guadalupe Barrera, siblings, Odilia Rodriguez (Ramon), Leobardo Barrera, (Agustina) Ofiela Dominguez (Carlos), Felix Barrera (Margarita), Ofelia Dominguez (Jose), Frank Barrera, San Juana Peña (Willie), Epifanio Barrera (Anita), and Felicita Sanchez (Rudy).

Lupe loved to surround herself with her family, especially her grandchildren. She enjoyed making party dresses for her granddaughters and great-granddaughters, and Bermuda shorts for the boys when it was the fashion trend in the 80s, and baby quilts. Lupe's cooking was legendary among friends and family.

She derived immense pleasure from making tortillas, tamales and her delicious papitas that were often accompanied by bacon. It was certain that anyone who walked through her door, didn't leave with an empty stomach. Her chicken and mole' were unparalleled and was a particular favorite of the family. She was also enthusiastic about whipping up banana pudding, banana bread, and her peanut brittle was a delicacy. Moreover, Lupe took immense pleasure decorating her house for the holidays, especially her blue lights during Christmas. Lastly, Lupe's deep-seated faith in our Lord served as a constant source of comfort, which she drew upon during time of hardship.

Lupe was greatly loved and will be deeply missed.

A Celebration of Life will be given in July of 2026. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Edmunds Parish Building Fund in Lupe Gaona's memory.

Champion Kane Funeral Home has been entrusted with local arrangements.