Gene Leyba

Gene “Mike” Leyba, of Denver, Colorado, died at home on January 19, 2021, at the age of 73, after a long battle with COPD and kidney disease.

Mike was born in Denver, Colorado on December 2, 1947. He worked as a machine operator at Gates Rubber Company for 25 years prior to his diagnosis with COPD. On August 16, 1969, he married his high school sweetheart Janice. Mike served in the U.S.  Army as a military policeman, stationed in Georgia and Vietnam. In 1974 and 1984, he welcomed his two beautiful daughters Courtney and Jaclyn. Then in 2010 and 2018, he welcomed his two precious grandchildren Caia and Andre “Max”. His family was the most important part of his life. Mike devoted his entire time to his wife, daughters and grandchildren. He provided love and support in all their interests whether it was in their education, sports, music or careers. Mike loved to have a good time and often liked to tease and joke with people, but he always stressed the importance of treating people with respect.

Mike is survived by his wife of 51 years, Janice (Ramirez) Leyba, his children, Courtney and Jaclyn (Corey Campbell), grandchildren Caia and Andre Campbell and sisters Geraldine Aguirre and Cynthia Gonzales, numerous nieces and nephews, and his dog Lady. He is preceded in death by his mother, Rose Gonzales and father, Fred Sandoval, sister Christine Luehne and brothers, Raymond Leyba, Jeffrey and Gerald Gonzales.

A special thanks to Elevation Hospice staff for providing care and support to Mike and his family during his final days.

Due to COVID restrictions, the family is planning a memorial service for a later date. Memorial information will be made available on Courtney Leyba’s Facebook page.