Obituaries

Angel Apodaca

1984-2019

Angel Apodaca, 35, passed away on Dec. 30, 2019, at the home of her loving friend and caretaker, Jenny Franco, in Los Lunas.

Angel was born in Albuquerque on Oct. 10, 1984.

She is survived by her mother, Annette Apodaca; father, Michael Apodaca; stepmother, Cynthia Apodaca; and her two sons, Tony and Phillip Apodaca, the joys of her life. Angel is also survived by brothers, Michael Jr. and Rico Apodaca; and sister, Sally Apodaca.

A memorial service was held at First Assembly of God in Belen on Tuesday, Jan. 7. Rest in peace our Angel; you are free.

Jose Ignacio (aka Joe or JB) Baldonado

1952-2020

Jose Ignacio (aka Joe or JB) Baldonado, age 67, life-long resident of Albuquerque, passed away peacefully Saturday, Jan. 4, 2020, at Texas Heart Institute/Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center in Houston, Texas.

Joe was a loving husband, stepfather, brother, uncle, godfather, cousin and friend.

He is survived by loving wife of 31 years, Felice Baldonado; mother, Josie Baldonado; sisters, Mary Celsa Baldonado and Ramona Irene Sanchez and husband, Cecil; nephews, Dominic Cuaron and David Sanchez; niece, Monica Sanchez; great-nephew, Daniel Schoppe; great-nieces, Crystal Cuaron and Sydney Sanchez (goddaughter); sisters-in-law, Joan Beltran (Tony), Gloria Ulibarri (Roberto), Martha Muller (Eddie), Jeanette Benavidez (Randy), Vivian Martinez and Eva Crowther (Brad); brothers-in-law, David Villanueva (Eleanor) and John Flores; aunts, Fidelma Romero, Vangie Hurst and Carmen Romero (Wilson); and many other loved ones.

Joe is preceded in death by his father, Reynaldo Baldonado; stepson, Andrew Vigil; grandparents, Jose Ignacio and Ramona Baldonado, and Feliberto and Mariana Romero.

He was a well-known musician in Albuquerque. He played bass guitar from 1969 to 2018 for Little Joe and the Blazers, the legendary Little Ralph, Bourguet Brothers, Los Coronados de Albuquerque, La Raza, Los Desperados, The Shoestrings, The Jesters and Desert Springs.

Services will be held at Ascension Church, 2150 Raymac Rd, SW, Albuquerque. Call Romero Funeral Home for service dates and times.

Pallbearers will be David Sanchez, Carl J. Hurst, Floren Trujillo, Robert Ulibarri, John Flores, Christopher Crowther. Honorary pallbearers will be Dominic Cuaron, Daniel Schoppe, Sydney Sanchez and Mike Gutierrez.

Please sign Joe’s online tribute at romerofuneralhomenm.com. Romero Funeral Home, 609 N. Main St., Belen.

Patsy Ann Bradley

1937-2019

Patsy Ann Bradley, age 82, passed away peacefully on Sunday, Dec. 8, 2019, at Casa de Maria in Rio Communities.

She was born Sept. 3, 1937, in Streeter, Ill., to Ed Roe and Ivy Montgomery. She and her family moved to New Mexico when she was a child, where she resided for the rest of her life and raised her family.

She was a very hardworking and independent woman. She worked for the state of New Mexico to provide for her family for which she eventually retired.

She took great pride in keeping her home and yard beautiful. In the summertime, family enjoyed visiting on the front porch, with her roses in view, listening to the wind chimes and watching her hummingbirds. She enjoyed shopping, going to the movies, reading and crocheting.

She is survived by brothers, Bill Roe and Rick Shaver; and her children, including her daughter, Colleen Montoya and her husband, Leroy, son, Shawn Hastings and partner, Cindy, son, Michael Hastings and wife, Sherri, and her youngest daughter, Margie Hastings, as well as many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Bernardo E. “Barney” Carbajal Jr.

1928-2020

Bernardo E. “Barney” Carbajal Jr., 91, a resident of Sabinal, N.M., inherited the fullness of his salvation having entered into the presence of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Jan. 4, 2020.

He was an educator, having served the Belen Consolidated Schools as the high school band director for many years. Barney passed the baton to his son, Barney III, after accepting a position as a counselor/recruiter with the College Enrichment Program at the University of New Mexico.

Upon retirement from UNM, Barney worked as a radio personality with local station KARS and later became its news editor. He was a member of Abundant Life Christian Center, and had the joy and privilege of sitting under the pastoral guidance of his son, Barney Carbajal III.

Barney was faithful in his service to the Lord, leading the Spanish Bible studies at New Hope Ministries with the late Pastor Robert Judson. He had the joy of introducing many people to Jesus Christ through the work he loved.

Barney was a World War II military veteran, having enlisted in the United States Army. Later, he had the distinct privilege of becoming a charter member of the United States Air Force when it became a separate branch of the Armed Forces in 1947. Barney was honorably discharged with the rank of staff sergeant. He was a Blue Star Dad, a member of the American Legion, and a loyal patriot who loved his country.

Barney was an avid golfer and enjoyed hitting the links with his sons, Barney and Leo. He enjoyed and embraced life to the fullest. Barney loved his family and found so much joy when he was surrounded by his devoted wife, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Barney was preceded in death by his father, Bernardo Carbajal Sr.; his mother, Emily Carbajal; brother, Ray Carbajal; sister, Corrine Jaramillo; daughter-in-law, Bobbi Carbajal; and grandson, Victor Dominguez.

He is survived by his loving wife, Jan Carbajal; sons, Barney Carbajal and wife Sandi, Leo Carbajal and wife, Veronica, Rick Carbajal and wife, Theresa; Robert Iorio and wife, Nilar; daughter, Karen Reed; and brother, Richard Carbajal. Barney is also survived by 16 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren.

Pastor Barney Carbajal III will officiate a celebration of life ceremony on Saturday, Jan. 11, at Abundant Life Christian Center, 105 Avenida del Fuego in Rio Communities. A public viewing will take place at 9 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 10 a.m. Interment will take place during a private ceremony at the Santa Fe National Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Gunnery Sgt. Rick Carbajal II, USMC; Tech. Sgt. Jonah Carbajal, USAF; Sgt. Sarah Reed, USA; and Cpl. Eric Weh, USMC.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Blue Star Mothers of Valencia County or American Legion Post 81.

Please sign Barney’s online tribute at romerofuneralhomenm.com. Romero Funeral Home, 609 N. Main St., Belen.

Jerry Cogswell

1931-2020

Jerry Cogswell passed away Friday, Jan. 3, 2020.

He was born April 14, 1931. Jerry became a Christian and was baptized at Line Avenue Baptist Church in Amarillo. Jerry served in the U.S. Air Force with Strategic Air Command during the Korean War. His love of flying led to a 30-year career as a captain for TWA Airlines.

Jerry was a car enthusiast and long-time member of LA Roadster Club in California, and Route 66 Car Club in Albuquerque.

He is preceded in death by his parents, George and KathaLynn Cogswell; and sister, Patricia Gwyn Marlow, of Amarillo, Texas.

Jerry is survived by his beloved wife, Carolina Cogswell, of Los Lunas; brother, Lee Cogswell and wife, Trudy, of Magnolia, Texas; nephews, Jeremy and Justin Cogswell, Greg Gwyn and wife, Amy, Edgar and Lita Jimenez and Kerry, Michael and Carli, of St. Charles, Ill.; niece, Leslie Gwyn, of Amarillo, Texas.

A memorial service is scheduled for 10:30 a.m., Friday, Jan. 10, at Community Bible Church, 1467 N.M. 314 in Los Lunas.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donating to Alzheimer’s Association (alz.org). Wishes may be sent online at noblin.com.

Louise Hepokoski

1926-2020

Louise Hepokoski, age 93, a resident of Belen, passed away on Jan. 2, 2020.

She was a member of the Moose Lodge in Rio Communities.

Louise is preceded in death by her husband, Melvin; and brother, Bob.

She is survived by sisters, Vonnie and Joyce; brother, Jerry; daughters, Judy, Linda and Susan; sons, Greg and Jeff; 18 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.

A celebration of life will take place from 4-6 p.m., Friday, Jan. 10, at Romero Funeral Home Chapel.

Please sign Louise’s online tribute at romerofuneralhomenm.com. Romero Funeral Home, 609 N. Main St., Belen.

Prescilla “Pripi” Johnson

1952-2020

On Jan. 2, 2020, Pripi closed her eyes for the last time and left this Earth.

She was the strongest person with a large heart. Her thoughts were always about everyone else and their happiness. We will forever miss her smile, zest for life, along with all the shenanigans she got into with her sisters and kids.

Pripi is survived by her husband of 30 years, Sam; her loving children, Rachel Selph (Jason), Albert Sanchez (Jessica), Melanie Aguilar (Paul) and Nathan Johnson (Erin); her loving grandchildren, Stephen, Gabby, Jasmine, Adam, Sofia, Oliver, Xavian, Ezekiel, Cecilia and little Nathan; mother-in-law, Chris Cannon; sisters, Tina Jaramillo, Becky Jaramillo (Ruben), Magdalen Sanchez (Steve) and Geraldine Crespin; and several nieces and nephews, whom she loved dearly.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Jose and Genoveva Chavira; sister, Stella; brothers, Albert, Bennie and Tony; father-in-law, Tom Cannon; brothers-in-law, Pat Jaramillo, Edward Crespin and Edward Johnson; and sister-in-law, Verna Burnette.

We would like to take this opportunity to express our sincere thanks and gratitude to the staff of Presbyterian/St. Luke’s Hospital in Denver, Colo., especially to all the nurses who cared for our mom like she was their own mother. Thank you to the community for all your prayers and donations. The outreach of love for our Pripi has been beyond measure. Our angel has passed.

In lieu of flowers, we request any donations to Brent’s Place at brentsplace.org.

Services will take place on Saturday, Jan. 11, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Tomé, beginning with a visitation at 9 a.m., Rosary to be recited at 10 a.m. and Funeral Mass at 10:30 a.m. Interment will take place at a later date.

Please sign Pripi’s online tribute at romerofuneralhomenm.com. Romero Funeral Home, 609 N. Main St., Belen.

Nicholas Craig Littlefield

1984-2019

Nicholas Craig Littlefield was taken by our heavily father on a beautiful day while riding his chopper Dec. 3, 2019. Nick was on his way to classes at the University of New Mexico-Valencia campus.

Nick was born Oct. 18, 1984, in Show Low, Ariz. He grew up in Los Lunas, where he graduated from Los Lunas High School, class of 2003.

He had a love for motorcycles, fast cars and freedom. Nick took pride in working in the oil field until an accident changed his direction. He always made life exciting and had luck on his side.

Nick has endured his share of trials and tribulations, but he always pushed through to better days. Surprisingly, he was thriving in college, which was opening up so many new opportunities that he now will never seize.

Nick is survived by his mother, Julie Tucker; grandmother, Sonja McNeil; sister, Britney Tucker; nephews, Laden and Mason, of Los Lunas; his father, Rick Littlefield; stepmother, Linda Littlefield; sister, Lauren; and brother, Cameron, of Pampa, Texas.

Harold Maez

Died 2020

Harold Maez, age 73, a resident of Los Lunas, passed away on Monday, Jan. 6, 2020.

Harold was the former owner of the Flyer Press in Los Lunas for many years. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, spending time with his family and his vacations to Mexico.

Harold is preceded in death by his parents, Polo and Arcida Maez; significant other, Ellie Syvertson; and many aunts and uncles.

He is survived by his sons, Mario C. Maez and Juan Carlos Maez; stepdaughter, Maria Jaramillo; grandson, Mario P. Maez; and sisters, Hilda S. Montano and Yolie O. McKinley.

Services will be held on Saturday, Jan. 11, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Peralta, beginning with a viewing at 9:30 a.m., followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:30 a.m. Interment will follow at Valencia Cemetery.

Arrangements are being handled by the caring professionals at the Noblin Funeral Service Los Lunas Chapel, 2211-D Main St., 866-9992.

Ross Maurice Pierce II

1952-2020

Ross Maurice Pierce II, age 67, a resident of Los Lunas, born July 29, 1952, passed away Monday, Jan. 6, 2020.

Ross enjoyed gardening, something he shared with his father. He had a strong bond with his roots, with decades of research into his genealogy, but his true passion was music. Self-taught, Ross got his first guitar at 12 years old and never looked back.

He was a huge fan of the Beatles and B.B King. Ross, with his brother, Bob, and friends, Bon and Charlie, formed the band Manta, but will be remembered for his years with Sagebrush and Next of Kin. Those who saw him play will remember his powerful voice, his guitar and most of all his love for performing.

Ross was a loving father, grandfather and great-grandfather. Ross always enjoyed time spent with family. He was loved by all and made countless, long-lasting friendships throughout his lifetime.

He is preceded in death by his father, Ross Maurice Pierce.

Ross is survived by his mother, Michiko Masuda Pierce; wife of 47 years, Jacqueline Pierce; brothers, Bob Pierce and Glenn Pierce; sister, Michelle Pierce; sons, Aaron and Jeffery Pierce; daughter, Kerri Leyba; grandchildren, Elizabeth, Anton, Chrissy, Alyssa, Bradly, Andraumytha, Dexter, CJ and Levi; great-grandchildren, Annelycia, Avalene, Issac Jr., Lilyanna and Jeremiah.

Arrangements are being handled by the caring professionals at the Noblin Funeral Service Los Lunas Chapel, 2211-D Main St., 866-9992, where service times are available at noblin.com.

Paul Anthony Smith

1951-2019

Paul Anthony Smith, 68, beloved husband and father, was called to his eternal resting place on Monday, Dec. 23, 2019.

He entered this world on Monday, June 4, 1951, in Dover, Ohio, born to George and Elizabeth Smith.

He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Carol Smith; daughter, Michelle Smith; daughter, Kristy Smith; daughter, April Smith.

Paul served in the U.S. Army, and in his free time, he loved working on and racing sprint cars.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, Jan. 11, at the Peralta United Methodist Church, 25 Wesley Road, Peralta, with a reception following. Pastor Daniel Armstrong will officiate.

Please visit our online guestbook for Paul at frenchfunerals.com FRENCH- University, 1111 University Blvd. NE., Albuquerque.

Frank Tabet Jr.

1931-2019

Frank Tabet Jr., a life-long resident of Belen, passed away on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2020, at the age of 88.

He was a member of Our Lady of Belen Catholic Church. For most of his life, he was a self-employed businessman and the owner of Frank’s Market and Liquor. He served in the Army National Guard, as a New Mexico State Police commissioner and as chairman on the State Fair Commission, but the most important aspect of his life was his family.

Frank was preceded in death by parents, Frank and Emilia Tabet; his beloved wife, Dora Tabet; son, Stephen R. Tabet, MD; brother, Ray Tabet, JD; and sister, Rose Tabet.

He is survived by children, Frank P. Tabet, Anna Chavez (Sam), Janet Tabet-Romero (Frank), Adam Tabet, MD (Connie) and Estella Tabet (mother, Agnes Tabet); sister, Marina Padilla; grandchildren, Marianne Candelaria (Carl), Dora Ann Delgado, Joseph Chavez (Catherine), Noah and Alissa Tabet; great-grandchildren, Christopher, Halie Ann, Ryan, Ava, Leia Ann, Mark, Jon, Cameron and Shirley Ann.

Services will take place at Our Lady of Belen Catholic Church on Thursday, Jan. 9, beginning with a visitation from 9-10 a.m., Rosary to be recited at 10 a.m., a Funeral Mass at 10:30 a.m., and interment will follow at Our Lady of Belen Memorial Gardens.

Please sign Frank’s online tribute at romerofuneralhomenm.com. Romero Funeral Home, 609 N. Main St., Belen.

Elton Travis

1934-2019

Elton Travis, age 85, a resident of Los Lunas, passed away on Monday, Dec. 2, 2019.

He was born in Quemado, N.M., raised in Fence Lake, N.M., and moved to Los Lunas in 1953. He married his high school sweetheart, Leta. They had one daughter, Pamela.

Elton worked in the artificial insemination field with cattle for 50 years all over New Mexico and West Texas. He also had a country western band from the 1950s. Elton played for events and dances all over the states of New Mexico, Arizona and Texas. He was the dairy superintendent for the New Mexico State Fair for 24 years.

Elton is preceded in death by his parents and two brothers.

He is survived by his loving wife, Leta Travis; daughter, Pamela and husband, Rick Johnson; grandson, Travis Johnson; granddaughter, Ashli and husband, Andrew Garner; and several great-grandchildren.

Services will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, Jan. 11, at the First Baptist Church of Los Chavez.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the above link, donatelifenm.org for Elton Travis.

Arrangements are being handled by the caring professionals at the Noblin Funeral Service Belen Chapel, 418 W. Reinken Ave., 864-4448, where an online guest register is available at noblin.com.