Ted Frank Atencio

It is with the heaviest of hearts that we are announcing the passing of Ted Frank Atencio – a beloved father, husband, son, brother, nephew, cousin, and great friend to many.

Ted passed away on September 1, 2018 at the age of 49 in Centennial, CO. He is survived by his loving wife (Laura), daughter (Brennan), mother (Elizabeth), father (Teodoro), sister (Amber), and his brother and his family (William, Teresa, Avery, Alexandra, and Jackson).

Ted was laser focused on building his legacy and, to that end, had embarked on one of life's most precious of journeys – that of being a father and a husband. Being on this journey, and sharing it with those closest to him, defined and drove his purpose. He woke every day, and went to sleep every night, with this gift residing central in his heart and encompassing his unique soul. Those who knew him best understood how much he cherished this opportunity and how much he was looking forward to building his dreams..

As those reading this can attest, Ted was a very kind and giving soul and his family and friends meant everything to him. He proved this time and time again by often putting his own interests aside to help his loved ones in need. Ted was extremely proud of, and inspired by, his sister and was equally as proud of his nephews and nieces. He made every effort to keep in touch with his extended family – which isn't easy given our size and the many locations – and in most cases was where we would go for the updates on how everyone was doing. Family mattered to him…plain and simple.

Ted was the very definition of automobile enthusiast. His penchant for automobiles was abundantly present from the very beginning. Able to identify the make, model, and year of any car on the road simply by looking at the tail lights – at the age of 7 – he was a fan of any competition that include an engine, wheels, and a checkered flag – but in particular he was a NASCAR and Rally Racing fanatic. There wasn't any aspect of cars he didn't love. Whether that was working on cars, studying cars, or giving up his time to make sure his friends and family found the right car for them. There may be those that knew as much about cars, but we've never known anyone that knew more.

Ted was gifted on the diamond and had ice water in his veins on the hardwood. An avid Colorado sports fan, he had a special place in his heart for the Denver Nuggets – particularly the David Thompson and Maxie the Miner era. He was only slightly less passionate about his Buffaloes, Broncos, and Rockies. And yes, even though he didn't grow up in a hockey town, he consumed his wife's love for the sport and made it his own.

Intelligent, personable, loving, funny, giving, and gone way too soon, Ted's impact on the lives of those around him, his enduring spirit, and those fondest of memories will forever be in our hearts. Ted always said he wouldn't want his passing to be mourned. He said he wanted to embrace his Irish lineage and have his life celebrated Irish-wake style. Well, we probably won't take it that far…but we will be celebrating his life and would be honored for his family and friends to join us in doing so.

Please join our family immediately following the funeral mass as we celebrate Ted's life with a selection of his favorite cuisine. Black Bear Golf Club, 11400 Canterberry Pkwy, Parker, CO 80138.

Visitation: September 9, 2018 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Horan & McConaty - South Metro/Centennial
5303 E County Line Rd
Centennial, CO 80122

Recitation of the Rosary : September 9, 2018 6:00 pm

Horan & McConaty - South Metro/Centennial
5303 E County Line Rd
Centennial, CO 80122

Funeral Mass: September 10, 2018 11:00 am

St. Thomas More Catholic Church
8035 S. Quebec St
Englewood, CO 80112