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Felekech Rufe, 69, was killed while she was walking home from work Monday evening.
AURORA, Colo. — An Aurora woman was laid to rest Saturday after she was hit and killed while crossing the street Monday night.
Felekech Rufe, 69, was on her way home from work when she was struck by a vehicle while crossing against a walk signal near East Iliff Avenue and South Blackhawk Street, according to her family.
“She was so many things. But out of all, she was just loving, and caring and selfless,” said her son, Melaku Berhanu.
Rufe’s family said she found joy in cooking, a passion that defined much of her life. As an immigrant from Ethiopia, Rufe worked in local bakeries and catering businesses after moving to Aurora in 2016. Her son fondly remembers her culinary skills.
“Everything she makes is my favorite,” Berhanu said. “I’m a mama’s boy. I always love to eat her food.”
Nebiyu Asfaw, a family friend, reflected on the suddenness of the tragedy.
“It’s a reminder of how fragile life is and how it can end suddenly,” Asfaw said.
Friends and family, including many members of Aurora’s Ethiopian community, gathered on Saturday to honor Rufe’s legacy and the impact she had on those around her. A simple meal, something Rufe was known for, was seen as a symbol of the way she brought people together.
“And that is something that’s rare in this world now,” Asfaw said. “Her legacy is for all of us to embrace who she is and learn from that and be inspired to be better and to be more like her.”
With shorter days and earlier sunsets, the family is urging both drivers and pedestrians to be especially cautious as the seasons change.
“It’s important for people walking, taking the bus, or driving to really be present and make sure that we keep each other safe,” Asfaw said.
The driver stayed on the scene, and no charges are expected, according to family members.
Rufe’s family is working to have her body returned to Ethiopia for burial. For those who wish to help with the costs, more information is available here.
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