Lena Tomada Brittelle

Lena Brittelle, 92, passed away at her “home away from home,” Quail Meadow, surrounded by her many angels—the staff, friends, and family.

Born in Gallup, New Mexico, to Italian immigrants, Teresa and Gussepy (Joe) Tomada. Lena cherished the opportunity to grow up and attend school in Gallup’s diverse community, an experience she treasured throughout her life. Lena carried a great respect for the Spanish/Mexican culture, as well as Native American culture. Her deep love of the Catholic faith was her guiding light.

Lena lived most of her adult life in Durango, Colorado where she enjoyed many community activities and social life—much of which was spent with her longtime companion, Larry McDaniels. She was involved with the PEO and Catholic Daughters.

Her later years were spent in Ogden, Utah where she enjoyed many neighbors and friends. Lena had more of an opportunity to connect with family with her move to Ogden. Lena attended St. James Dioceses. Father David meant a lot to Lena and she looked forward to his visits in her later years.

The family wants to acknowledge and express gratitude to the staff at Quail Meadows Assisting Living in Ogden, Utah. The staff and facility people were so very kind and patient with Lena. IHC Hospice nurses and shower aides were exceptional and were a tremendous help to the family.

Lena’s life was enhanced by neighbors and friends. A special thanks to Dustie Burnett and her daughter Mckinzie for all of the help and visits that were provided.

Lena is survived by her two daughters, Cynthia Brittelle Jensen of Logan, Utah, and Jnell Brittelle Shane of Santa Ana, California; eight grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

Lena’s brother, George Tomada, preceded her in death.

Lena will be remembered for her faith, warmth, and love for family with a service at Aaron’s Mortuary, 496 24th St., Ogden, Utah, on Thursday, October 9 from 4 to 6 p.m. A small service honoring Lena will be held at 4:30--friends and family are welcome to attend.

On November 7, 2025, a rosary will be held at 9:30 a.m. followed by a funeral mass at 10 a.m. at St. Columba Catholic Church, 1800 E. 2nd Ave., Durango, Colorado.

Lena will be laid to rest with her mother in the Greenmount Cemetery, 900 Cemetery Road, Durango, Colorado

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in memory of  Lena Brittelle

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