Claude "Arch" Matias Archuletta passed away at Alta Vita Assisted Living Center on February 26, 2018, at the age of 85. He was surrounded by family and friends and peacefully went to be in the presence of God. Claude was born at the family home in Moffat, Colorado, and was delivered by his father. The youngest child of Matias and Lucia Archuleta, Claude along with his 10 siblings grew up in the San Luis Valley working on the family ranch. Claude went to Adams State College after graduating from Moffat High School, where he received degrees in English and Spanish, as well as a life certification for teaching in Colorado. Later, he went on to receive an advanced degree in Spanish from Colorado University. It was at Adams State that he met the love of his life, Elvera Gonzales. They married in June of 1966. Claude began his lifelong dream of teaching in Ft. Lupton, Colorado. Over the years, he taught at several high schools in Colorado, with the longest period at Niwot High School. He taught English and Spanish for 37 years, and retired from the St. Vrain Valley School district in 1993. Claude was an exceptional teacher, and made lifelong friendships with many other teachers and former students. He always took time to listen to his students, and spent many extra hours at the school helping with extracurricular activities. Claude will always be remembered by his students and is often referred to as their "favorite" teacher. His greatest enjoyment was to see his students achieve success in their field of study. His love for learning and teaching never ceased. Claude was active in St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, and was lifetime member of the local Elks Club in Longmont. He loved music, playing the piano, art, literature and photography. Claude was soft spoken, a deep thinker, and authentic in his love for people and care for their needs. After retirement Claude volunteered at the Adult Education School to teach English. He was preceded in death by his parents, 5 brothers and 4 sisters. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Elvera Archuletta of Longmont CO; his sister Isidora Atencio of Loveland; Juanita Vega of Chicago, IL and many nieces and nephews who were his pride and joy. In lieu of flowers, Claude had asked that donations be made to the Alzheimer's organization, http://www.alz.org It was his greatest hope that the disease that affected those that he loved be cured. Viewing at Howe Mortuary 5:00-6:00 pm on Monday, March 5th followed by a Rosary service at 6:00 pm Funeral Mass at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church 10:30 am on Tuesday, March 6th. A reception will follow the Mass at St. John's. Entombment will be at Longmont Mountain View Cemetery.