d. Sep. 14, 2026
It is with deep sadness and loving remembrance that the family of Leroy Joe “Columbo” Arellano announces his passing on September 14, 2026, in Alamosa, Colorado. Leroy, affectionately and widely known throughout his life as “Columbo,” was born on July 19, 1957, in Colorado, to Adolph Arellano and Agatha Arellano. To so many who knew and loved him, the name Columbo became a special part of who he was—a name spoken with friendship, love, and countless fond memories.
Columbo received his high school diploma and went on to spend many years working as an equipment operator in the mining and agriculture industries. He was an incredibly hard-working man who was never afraid of a long day or a difficult job. Whether he was operating heavy equipment, working outdoors, or chopping wood, Columbo believed in putting his whole heart into whatever needed to be done. His dedication, strength, and willingness to work hard were qualities that defined him throughout his life.
From a young age, Columbo had a love for basketball. He enjoyed playing while growing up and continued playing throughout his high school years, creating memories that he carried with him for the rest of his life. He also had a deep appreciation for music. He loved listening to his favorite songs and especially enjoyed playing his guitar. Music brought Columbo comfort and happiness and was a special part of who he was.
Columbo also loved fishing and spending time outdoors. One of his greatest joys was driving around in his beloved 1955 Chevy, a car that brought him great pride and countless good memories. Those who knew Columbo will remember a man who knew how to enjoy life’s simple pleasures—a good song, time spent fishing, playing his guitar, working with his hands, taking a drive in his Chevy, sharing a laugh, or simply spending time with the people he loved.
Above all, Columbo was a man of faith. He carried a strong devotion to the Lord throughout his life and found strength, peace, and guidance through prayer. He could often be found praying his Rosary, something that was deeply meaningful to him. His faith remained an important foundation in his life, guiding him through both joyful and difficult times.
Columbo will also be remembered for his wonderful sense of humor. He had a way of bringing laughter into a room and creating memories through his jokes, stories, and unforgettable personality. His family and friends will deeply miss his laughter, his presence, his hardworking spirit, and the warmth he brought into their lives. The nickname “Columbo” will forever bring a smile and a memory to the many people who had the privilege of knowing him.
Left to cherish Columbo’s memory are his loving mother, Agatha Arellano; his son, James (Lexi) Salazar; his grandchildren, Zackery Salazar and Marshall Salazar; his sister, Bessie Rascon; his brother, Frank (Dawn) Arellano; and his godchild, Nathaniel Herrera.
He is also lovingly remembered by his nieces and nephews, Norma (Nicolas Padilla) Rascon, Javier (Kristi) Rascon, Bonnie Rascon, Amy (Veto) Vialpando, Monique Romero, Robert (Amber) Arellano, Jalen Arellano, and Devin Arellano; his special nephew, Michael Sandoval; as well as many extended family members, friends, and loved ones whose lives were touched by Columbo throughout the years.
Columbo was preceded in death by his father, Adolph Arellano; his brother, Ernie Arellano; his maternal grandmother, Bessie Barela Sanchez; and his niece, Michelle Rascon. He now joins those who went before him, leaving his family to find comfort in their memories and in the faith that was so important to him.
Although Columbo’s passing leaves an emptiness in the hearts of those who loved him, his life leaves behind countless memories that will continue to be cherished. His hardworking hands may now be at rest, but the lessons he taught, the laughter he shared, the music he loved, and the faith he carried will live on through his family. May every song, every cast of a fishing line, every sound of a guitar, every classic Chevy on the road, and every prayer of the Rosary bring a loving reminder of Leroy “Columbo” Arellano and the beautiful memories he leaves behind.
A Rosary was held on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at Sacred Heart Church in Costilla, New Mexico.
A Funeral Mass was celebrated on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at Sacred Heart Church in Costilla, New Mexico. Interment followed the Mass at Amalia Cemetery in Amalia, New Mexico, where Columbo was laid to rest.
To leave online condolences for the Arellano family, please visit romerofuneralhomes.com
The care of arrangements has been entrusted to Romero Valley Funeral Home of Alamosa
