Pete Leo Aldana

Pete Leo Aldana, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully at home in Cheyenne, Wyoming, on January 25, 2025.  He left this world surrounded by his devoted children at 3 PM, a time he cherished as the "Hour of Divine Mercy," which encapsulated his unwavering faith and devotion to the Lord.

Born on April 7, 1938, in Granite Canyon, Wyoming, Pete's journey through life was marked by his boundless spirit of hard work and dedication. He began his career in maintenance at St. Mary’s School/Gymnasium, where he quickly earned the endearing nickname "Mr. Pete," a title that would follow him throughout his life. For over 30 years, he served as the head of Maintenance for the Laramie County School District #1, overseeing the Admin Building and Storey Gym. Pete’s remarkable commitment saw him never miss a day of work, come rain, snow, or shine, and he often dedicated his evenings to side jobs, ensuring his family's well-being. His selflessness extended beyond his profession; Pete also devoted countless hours of maintenance service to the Cathedral of St. Mary.

Pete’s character shined through in his infectious laugh, charming smile, and twinkling blue-green eyes. He was known for his gentle spirit, always willing to lend a hand or share what little he had, embodying the true essence of a gentleman. Whether it was playing cards, lifting weights, or saying the rosary multiple times a day, Pete found joy in both the simple pleasures of life and the companionship of family. He was an ardent fan of the Dallas Cowboys and enjoyed attending sporting events for his children and grandchildren, fostering a love for sports within his family.

Throughout his life, Pete had a profound commitment to his Roman Catholic faith, a devotion that defined much of his work and community involvement. He co-founded the Sacred Heart of Jesus Prayer Group with his wife, Susan, in the early 1970s, starting in the basement of their home before relocating to Hartmann Hall, where it thrived for over three decades. Their love for the faith led them to attend numerous national Charismatic conferences, culminating in a cherished Apostolic Blessing from Saint John Paul II.

In addition to founding the first Men's Group at St. Mary's Cathedral in the early 1980s, Pete contributed significantly to the parish community through various ministries. He diligently served as a Eucharistic Minister and Altar Server for many years, eventually taking on the role of training new Altar Servers. Moreover, he and Susan created lasting traditions within the Church, such as decorating the Cathedral for the Advent and Christmas season, famously establishing the 16-foot Christmas Tree as a symbol of hope and life.

Pete is survived by his five children, Monica Galicia (Adam), Mathew Aldana (Denise), LeeAudra Macias, Yvette Fallon (Connor), and Damion Aldana (Allison). His legacy thrives through his 14 grandchildren—Michael, Sierra, Ariana, Justin, Danielle, Natalie, Raquel, Erik, Diana, Lauren, Logan, Nathan, Hailey, and Jenna—and 18 great-grandchildren, all of whom he cherished deeply. He also leaves behind his loving sisters, Mary Puente and Delores "Lola" Kamai, along with sister-in-laws Michelle Cano (Ruben), Frances Frost (Wes), and Nazarena Schell (Ron), and numerous nieces, nephews, and Godchildren who will carry forward his spirit of love and faith.

Pete is preceded in death by his loving wife of 64 years, Susan Aldana;, his parents, Rosendo and Amelia Aldana; his brother, Angel Aldana; his sisters, Cora Sanchez, Matilda "Tillie" Munoz, and Rachel Pacheco; his cherished son, Michael Aldana; his son-in-law, Salvador Macias; and multiple brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, as well as his beloved mother-in-law, Virginia Sanchez, and father-in-law, Mike Sanchez.

As we reflect on the life of Pete Leo Aldana, we celebrate a remarkable man who embodied love, faith, and dedication. His warm spirit and unwavering commitment to his family and faith community will be cherished and remembered by all whose lives he touched.

The services to honor Pete's life will be held at St. Mary’s Cathedral in Cheyenne. The Rosary will be prayed on Wednesday February 5th at 7:30pm, with the Funeral Mass on Thursday February 6, 2025 at 10am, and Interment at Olivet Cemetery. Reception to follow in Hartmann Hall at St. Mary's Cathedral.