Rhonda Lupe Rispoli

Rhonda Lupe Rispoli, known affectionately as "Stormy," journeyed into the arms of eternity on December 9, 2024, in Aurora, Colorado. Born on February 13, 1964, in the heart of Denver, she emerged from her early years with a spirit as vibrant and colorful as the crafts she loved to create. An embodiment of love and resilience, Rhonda’s life was woven with a tapestry of family, friends, and an unwavering commitment to uplifting others.

Her story commenced within the loving embrace of the Ramirez family, where she was lovingly nurtured by her parents, Mary Alicia and Lupe Ramirez. Memories of her childhood were cherished alongside her siblings: Cedric, Rowena, Rise, Tryghve, Ephraim, Abram, Allison, and Alex, each of whom contributed to the laughter and lessons of her upbringing.

Early in her professional life, Rhonda served as a cafeteria cook for the Denver Public Schools, where her nurturing nature flourished amidst the simple joys of feeding children. However, her entrepreneurial spirit beckoned, leading her to establish Rhonda's Creative Ceramics and Creative Window Scenes, businesses that bloomed from her boundless creativity. She later extended her caring hands as a manager at a women's shelter, sharing her warmth and compassion with those who needed it most. Rhonda’s work as a direct service provider at Lardon Hall allowed her to fulfill her passion for helping others, leaving an indelible mark on countless lives.

In the tapestry of her life, love was a recurring thread. On January 19, 1986, Rhonda married Michael Antony Rispoli, with whom she welcomed three beautiful children: Michael, Vincent, and Giana. Though this union eventually dissolved, her love for her children remained unending. In later years, she found joy with her high school sweetheart, Steven Valdez, with whom she shared innumerable happy moments.

A woman of many interests and talents, Rhonda thrived in her hobbies, reveling in the world of arts and crafts, finding solace and delight in cooking and entertaining her loved ones. She embraced the joy of thrifting, often uncovering treasures that would grace her home. Nature walks provided her peace, while her spirited dancing earned her the title of "disco queen," a lively testament to her effervescent personality. But above all, her greatest treasure was her grandchildren—Bojenna, Michael, Christian, Aliyah, and Victoria—who brought immeasurable joy and purpose to her life.

Educated in the Denver Public Schools, Rhonda pursued her passion for culinary arts, becoming a certified care provider later in her life. Her journey of faith led her to a deep connection with the Colorado Community Church, where she embraced a spiritual awakening that further enriched her life.

Rhonda leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness, remembered fondly by her surviving family: sons Michael A. Rispoli and Vincent M. Rispoli, daughter Giana A. Rispoli, devoted companion Steven Valdez, sister Rowena E. Thomas, brothers Tryghve, Ephraim, Abram and Alex Ramirez, sister Alison R. Ramirez, and a host of cherished grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many friends. She is preceded in death by her beloved mother, Mary Alicia; father, Lupe; sister, Rise; and brother, Patrick J. (Cedric) Ramirez.

As the community gathers to honor Rhonda's life, her memorial service will take place on January 17, 2025, at Pipkin Braswell Funeral Home & Cremation in Denver, Colorado. Friends and family will share their memories and stories, celebrating the beautiful and impactful spirit that was Stormy, a beacon of love who touched the hearts of many, a life marked by generosity, creativity, and a profound affection for her loved ones.