Micheline Laura Staples

Micheline Laura Staples, affectionately known as Mitzi and sometimes Michella, passed away peacefully at the age of 93, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering love, family devotion, and quiet strength that touched the lives of all who knew her. Born on May 8, 1932, in Trinidad, Colorado, to Dominic Patrick James and Rosa James, Mitzi was one of 11 cherished siblings: Vincent James, Alice James (Pinkston), John James, Josephine James (Gettings), Ralph James, Joseph James, Lorraine James (Alfonso), James James, Frederick James, and Rosalie James (Spicola). Raised in a close-knit family, she attended Holy Trinity Catholic School before enrolling in Trinidad High School. During her high school years, she and her sisters were asked by a prominent local women's clothing store to be live models in their display window. The girls would sit and play cards while wearing the latest fashions to catch the eye of passing shoppers. The entire family loved to hear her, and her sisters share stories of that special time in their lives. These experiences inspired her to pursue her passion for beauty and creativity, completing schooling in beauty and cosmetology. Mitzi's life was marked by deep personal connections and enduring partnerships. She first married Robert Paul Denney, with whom she welcomed her daughter, Christine Lynnell Denney, in 1958. After Robert's passing, she found love again with Freeman Edward Staples, and together they celebrated the birth of their son, David Staples, in 1966. Throughout her years, Mitzi remained vibrant and engaged, channeling her energy into meaningful work alongside her beloved family. She collaborated with her siblings in family ventures, including the Handy Corner Soda Shop and Restaurant. Her career extended into the resort and hospitality industry in Aspen and Snowmass, Colorado, where she brought warmth and hospitality to all she served. Later, she rejoined her sister in baking bread and pastries, infusing her creations with the same care she extended to those around her. Above all, Mitzi lived for her family-from her parents and siblings to her extended kin and great-grandchildren. After relocating to Phoenix, Arizona, she cherished the time spent with them, creating memories that will endure for generations. A guardian of family history, she preserved precious heirlooms, recalling every detail with remarkable clarity. Mitzi never missed a birthday, always reaching out to express her profound love and remind her loved ones of their importance. Her passion for collecting treasures from yard and estate sales was a joyful pursuit, one she eagerly anticipated sharing with newer family members to pass on her legacy and keep her spirit alive. Mitzi is survived by her younger brothers, James and Frederick; her younger sister, Rosalie; her daughter, Christine Lynnell Martinie, and son-in-law, Forrest Franklin Martinie; her son, David Staples, and daughter-in-law, Vicki Staples; her grandchildren, Jenalie Rose Price (and grandson-in-law, Bob Price), Matthew Forrest Martinie, and Jacob Tanner Martinie; and her great-grandchildren, Gracelynn Rose Price, Everleigh Christine Price, Major James Martinie, Forrest Nathanial Martinie, and Liam Tanner Martinie. In Mitzi's memory, we celebrate a life rich with love, resilience, and generosity. She will be deeply missed, but her light continues to shine through the family she so dearly cherished. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Micheline Laura Staples, please visit our floral store.