In Loving Memory of Kelvey Sue Arana

January 06, 1957 - November 05, 2023

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend, Kelvey Sue Arana, who left this world on November 5th, 2023 at the age of 66. She is leaving behind a legacy of love, devotion, and a generous heart that touched the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Kelvey was born on January 06, 1957, to proud parents Phyllis Carrol and Louis Watt in Los Angeles, CA.  She spent much of her elementary years with her maternal grandparents Clark and Jean McKelvey (whom she was named after) at their ranch in Justin, Texas. Her experiences on their successful Ponies of America and later Red Angus cattle ranch not only enriched her early years but also shaped her strong connection to the land and her love for animals. Kelvey was happiest on horseback and was known for bringing home all sorts of animals throughout the years to join her family, as her heart always had room for one more.

Later Kelvey returned to CA and graduated from John H. Francis Polytechnic High School in Sun Valley, CA. Shortly after, she met the love of her life, Steve Arana, and went on to marry him on September 17th, 1977. They returned to TX briefly in 1979-1981 to help the family on the ranch, then it was off to chasing dreams and writing their life story together when they moved to Colorado Springs, CO. That is where they started their family. In 1983 they moved to Peyton, CO where they raised their three children, Rebecca Arana, Philip Arana, and Jessica Erdle (Arana). Kelvey's connection to her roots and family remained strong, and she and Steve frequently traveled back and forth to Texas, extending a helping hand to her mother and grandparents as they ran the family ranch. This experience allowed her children, and even her grandchildren, to share in the richness of farm life, mirroring Kelvey's own cherished upbringing. Kelvey fiercely loved her children, and her devotion extended to her role as a grandmother, where she found immense joy in the presence of her grandchildren, Trinity and Trenton Hantla, children of Rebecca.

Kelvey enjoyed a successful and rewarding career in the telecommunications industry. She began her professional journey at AT&T, where she worked as a telephone operator. Over the course of many mergers and promotions she eventually was led to her last professional post at Avaya, where she served as a Telecommunications Traffic Study Coordinator assisting businesses and clients from all over the world. Kelvey retired from Avaya in 2008 and spent her early retirement days helping to run the McKelvey Ranch. A provider in every sense, she devoted herself to ensuring the well-being of her family and friends. Her generosity knew no bounds, and she would go to great lengths to support those in need. Kelvey's compassion and selflessness were qualities that had profound impact on all those who knew her.

In addition to Kelvey's love for family, she also had a deep love for her country. She was a true patriot who upheld her traditional values and took her civic duties very seriously. A dedicated American who respected the principles of freedom, justice, and the pursuit of happiness, her love for her country and American values was evident in every aspect of her daily life. She proudly passed down her beliefs to her children and grandchildren, always happy to talk about the state of the union or to attend a political rally. Very few experiences surpassed the opportunity to "witness history", as she described it.

Kelvey's passing leaves a void in the lives of all who knew her. Her legacy is one of love, resilience, and a special appreciation for life's simple joys. Though she may be gone too soon, her memory and spirit will endure in the hearts of her family and friends, serving as a reminder to cherish those we hold dear, give freely, and stay true to our convictions. May she find eternal peace, and may her memory continue to serve as a shining example of love and generosity.

Kelvey is survived by her three children: Rebecca Arana, Philip Arana, Jessica Erdle; her granddaughter Trinity Hantla; her grandson Trenton Hantla; her ex-husband Steve Arana, her step-mother Joyce Watt; and her siblings: Gary Watt, Tricia Lee, and Lee Watt.

A celebration of life ceremony will be held in Colorado Springs, CO on Saturday, December 9th from 1-3pm. All those who wish to attend are welcome and can contact Jessica Erdle at 719-661-1538 for location details.