Obituaries (Sept. 23)

Joseangel Francisco Baca

1993-2021

Our most precious, Joseangel Francisco Baca, age 28, went with our Lord on Sept. 4, 2021, and was a resident of Los Lentes, N.M.

He was a 2011 graduate of Century High School.

Joseangel was preceded in death by his father, Robert J. Baca; sister, Jacqueline Mae Baca; paternal grandparents, Manuel “Nelo” and Josie “Fefa” Baca; maternal grandparents, Don K. Moore and Alberta Mae Bullhead; uncle and godfather, Frankie Chavez; aunt, Delia Baca; and uncle, Eddie Baca; cousins, Adam Baca and Jose Otero; and his very best friend, Ruben DeLeon.

He is survived by mother, Laurie Lozoya; sisters, Crystal Baca, Evangeline (Raul Reynaga) and Juanita Baca; brother, Julian (Jazmin) Baca; Jonathan (Monica) Moore; girlfriend, Alisia Manzanares; daughter, Aliah “Minnie” Manzanares; and many loving aunts, uncles and cousins.

Joseangel loved the outdoors, riding his motorcycle and looking at the moon at night. He would lend a helping hand to anyone with a smile and a very strong handshake.

Services took place on Sept. 17.

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

 

Martha Anne (Pino) Cieremans

1949-2021

Martha Anne (Pino) Cieremans entered into heaven rejoicing on Sept. 10, 2021.

She was born on April 15, 1949, in Belen, to Rosie and Arthur Pino. Martha was the oldest of eight children. She graduated from Manzano High School, where she met the love of her life, Kees, at the age of 14.

They went on to have five children, 11 grandchildren, one great-grandchild and six step-grandsons. Martha was completely devoted to her family. One of the biggest joys in life was attending her grandchildren’s sporting events. Above all, her desire was to see God glorified in everything. Martha’s life was a reflection of God’s love and joy.

Martha was preceded in death by her parents, Rosie and Arthur Pino; mother and father-in-law, Cornelis and Jacoba Cieremans; and her brother, Adrian Pino Sr.

She is survived by her husband of 52 years, Kees; children, Kristie (Phillip), Paul (Claire), Kees (Shirley), Nicole (Scott) and Sarah (Dennis); grandchildren, Kees, Anna, Jacob, Karlos, Paul Joshua, Victoria, Kylee, Natalie, Luke, Brittany and Brooke; step-grandsons, Allen, Jacobe, Loghan, Dennis Jr., Dylan and Dereck; and great-grandson, Baby Coop; siblings, Irene, Dianna (John), Loraine, Carol (Alex), Sandra, Marty (Terrye) and Renee (Anthony); and many nieces and nephews.

Martha’s celebration of life was held on Thursday, Sept. 16, at Grace Fellowship in Los Lunas.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to The Children’s Cancer Fund of New Mexico, ccfnm.org.

 

Phillip Lee Cooney

1938-2021

Phillip Lee Cooney, 83, of Joelton, Tenn., and formally of Los Lunas and Vista, Calif., passed away on Sunday, Aug. 22, 2021, at his home.

He was born on March 31, 1938, in Greenfield, Ind., to the late Claude and Beryle Cooney. Phillip was the owner of The Part Centre in Escondido, Calif., until selling and continuing to work as the manager of Associated Truck Parts and Brake Supply Store.

He also worked for more than 30 years as a newspaper delivery driver. He was such a hardworking man. He did what ever it took to provide for his family. He passed those traits off to his sons.

Phillip had a wonderful personality. Everywhere he went he found at least one friend. He enjoyed making others laugh and spending time with his family. He loved to share his expansive knowledge of the gospel with everyone. He loved bowling, roller derbies and westerns.

Phillip enjoyed reading as many as three or four books at a time. He was writing his own life story and was planning on publishing all the many adventures of his life.

In addition to his parents, Phillip is preceded in death by his daughter, Janetta Cooney, eight brothers and sisters.

He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Sharon Lee Cooney; children, Sheri Wingate, Phillip Lee Cooney Jr., Kimarie Serrato, Edward Earl Cooney, Tami Powell, Phillip J. (Tammy) Cooney, Merry (Seth DeMar) Tidwell, Dana (Anthony) Iasbarrone, Thomas (Rochelle) Cooney and Kara (Brad) Lowery; 14 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and one sister.

A life celebration will be held at a later date.

These arrangements were entrusted to Springfield Memorial Gardens, Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 4005 Memorial Blvd., Springfield, Tenn., 37172, 615-384-5437, SpringfieldFH.com

 

Allen Renee “A.R.” Cordingley

1944-2021

Allen Renee “A.R.” Cordingley, age 77, of Los Lunas, passed away on Monday, Sept. 13, 2021.

A.R. could be described as one of the toughest dudes you’ll ever meet. Although he spent most of his career as a serviceman for Miller Bonded, A.R worked tirelessly on his New Mexico ranch and enjoyed being an all-around cowboy (team roping, steer wrestling, bareback riding and more).

A.R. was married to Patricia Cordingley for 36 years, and raised three boys. He enjoyed team roping with Casey and watching him play football, mentoring Joey in steer wrestling, and following Allen on his musical path.

A.R. is preceded in death by his parents, Howard Earl Cordingley and Dorothy Lee Zoleman.

He is survived by his sons, Casey Cordingley, Joey Cordingley and Allen Cordingley and wife, Amy. Allen is also survived by his grandchildren, David Sanchez, Tristen Cordingley and Janet Cordingley.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the nursing staff at Sierra Springs Assisted Living facility for their devoted care.

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

 

Guadalupe “Lupe” Tomas Garcia

Died 2021

Guadalupe “Lupe” Tomas Garcia, 86, of Belen, passed away peacefully on Sept. 17, 2021 surrounded by his loving family.

Lupe spent his life serving his Lord, his loving family and his community. Lupe was known for his infectious laugh, his generous heart and his gentle soul. His smile lit up the room!

He loved entertaining his grandchildren with his silly magic tricks and made each one of his 91 descendants feel like they were his favorite. His legacy is love.

Lupe was born in Vaughn, N.M., and soon after moved to Clovis. At the age of 5, he met the love of his life, Annie. They married in 1954 and raised seven children. In 1988, they transferred to Belen with the BNSF Railroad.

He was a dedicated member of Our Lady of Belen Church. He and his wife, Annie, were members of the Spanish Choir and he loved playing the tambourine. He volunteered at St. Vincent de Paul, played the Archangel Gabriel in La Gran Pastorela, taught catechism classes and helped lead Christian and marriage retreats.

He was a well-known member of Tierra Del Sol Golf Club, and was elected the Del Rio Senior Center Valentine King three years in a row. He was talented at playing golf, pool and poker. He loved music and dancing.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Annie; his seven children, Jo Ann Rubio (Juan Bonney), Richard, Dina Anaya (Albert), Deacon Steve Garcia (Francine), Lindy Lucero (Michael Trujillo), Cella Garcia (Jenny Anaya) and Peggy Marquez (Leroy); 17 grandchildren, 38 great-grandchildren, and eight great-great-grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Concepcion and Rosita Garcia; his in-laws, Antonio and Cleo Gutierrez; his siblings, Joe C. Garcia, Joe B. Garcia and Helen Trujillo; and his great-grandson, Tiger Michael Hennessy.

Services for Lupe will be held at a later date. Please refer to noblin.com for service updates.

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.

 

Matthew Aaron Hill

1977-2021

Matthew Hill, 44, of Rio Communities, passed away on Sept. 15, 2021.

He is survived by his wife and best friend, Nicole; children, Michael, Amanda and Nikkolas; his mother, Kathleen; mother-in-law, Wendy; brother, Lincoln (Tarla); and sister, Claudette (David); their families, and many wonderful friends.

A celebration of his life will be held from 4-6 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 23, at 33 Eusebio Road, in Belen, (north end of Gabaldon Road).

 

 

 

Marianne Kempel Lynch

1948-2021

Marianne Kempel Lynch, was born on Jan. 8, 1948, in Columbus, Ohio, and left this Earth due to COVID-related lung issues on Sept. 13, 2021.

Marianne was a giver to her family, friends and community. For as long as we can remember, her heart was focused on volunteering and helping others. She helped at the local Bosque Farms Library.

After her retirement from teaching English at Los Lunas High School, she returned to work at the library. The masks of the pandemic could not stop the joy of her laughter from being heard and shared. People could still imagine her smile.

Marianne Lynch taught English at Los Lunas High School for more than 10 years. She had a sociability that cannot be taught at college. She was easy to get along with, and let you know she cared about you.

As a new teacher, she helped freshmen with the awkward transition to high school. When she taught about King Arthur to sophomores, she probably told them about her exploration of a castle in Scotland, as she attended boarding school in Scotland during her school days.

She taught juniors English as part of the humanities Advanced Placement (AP) course, which required students to attend classes beyond their school schedule, and to especially challenge their students to learn. Toward the end of her teaching career, she served as chairperson of the English Department.

She gave her time and energy beyond the school day, sometimes working in her classroom on weekends. She served as sponsor to the class of 2008, which included such things as overseeing the decoration of the gym for the prom party, helping with a parade and distributing diplomas to graduates after the ceremony.

Her enjoyment of reading was not just a work event, but a life event. Thrilled, she would share her story about meeting Whoopi Goldberg at the Denver convention of the National Council of Teachers of English. She sent links to stories to others to cheer them up. On “free” days, she read late into the morning, a wide variety, such as “Harry Potter” or “Wolf Hall.” Her enthusiasm was contagious, as one colleague observed, when her son was Marianne’s student, he really started to enjoy reading.

She is survived by her brother and his family, Jeffrey Lenigar (Kim Lenigar) Lindsay, Keely; her sister, Pam Wheatley (James Wheatley) Heath, Corey, Rachel and Tiffany, and her children and grandchildren,  Kirsten Lynch (Scott Rendleman) Jack, 14, Molly, 11, Seana Sakai (Paul Sakai), Sidney, 5, Alina, 1, Bill Lynch (Mellisa Flowers) Kaylee, 17, Taylor, 15, Mason, 13, and Kyle Lynch, Aria 6.

A memorial will be held soon on Zoom. Please honor our mother by being good to those you love and by sharing your gifts, love and energy with your community. We will miss you, Mom, more than we can ever say.

 

Cordilia “Cordy” Mares

1941-2021

Cordilia “Cordy” Mares, age 80, a resident of Belen, was peacefully called home by God on Sept. 17, 2021, surrounded by her loved ones.

She was a devout Catholic and a life-long member Our Lady of Belen Catholic Church.

Cordy was the beloved wife of Orlando Mares. Together, they raised two beautiful children. She was a devoted mother to Carla and Gerald.

Cordilia grew up in a loving faith filled home with her nine siblings, and her parents, Pablo and Manuelita Sanchez. She graduated from Belen High School in 1960. A lot of her life was dedicated to caring for others. Cordy worked at the Los Lunas Hospital and Training School for many years.

She met her husband, Orlando Mares, and they married in 1973. They were blessed with 48 beautiful years of marriage together. She then worked from home, where she raised her children during their school aged years. During this time, she also baby sat many children in her home, who she loved as her own.

She later returned to working outside the home as a cook for the Belen Consolidated Schools. Cordy retired in 2003, so she could take care of her grandkids, or her “little angels,” as she loved to call them. She always liked serving others, especially with a meal.

Her happiest moments were spent with family surrounded around her kitchen table, laughing, talking and sharing in meals she made. She also enjoyed going to dances, traveling and casino visits.

Cordy was preceded in death by parents, Pablo and Manuelita Sanchez; mother and father-in-law, Belisandro and Carlota Mares; siblings, Mary Sanchez (Herman), Jose Amado Sanchez (Charolette), Eloisa Sanchez (Celso), Lourdes Baca, Annie Carrillo (Pat) and Gilbert Sanchez; and sister-in-law, Nellie Sanchez.

She is survived by her loving husband, Orlando Mares; daughter, Carla Martinez (Ruben); son, Gerald Mares; grandchildren, Natalie, Diego and Sara Martinez, Jadon and Kayla Mares; siblings, Frank Sanchez, Lucy Gabaldon (Fidel) and Lolly Silva (Roddy); brother-in-law, Sylvestre Baca; and sister-in-law, Evelyn Sanchez.

All services will be held at Our Lady of Belen Catholic Church on Thursday, Sept. 23, beginning with a public viewing at 8:30 a.m., a Rosary to be recited at 9:30 a.m., Funeral Mass at 10 a.m., and Interment at 11 a.m.

Pallbearers will be Diego Martinez, Jadon Mares, Roddy Silva, Joe Roybal, Travis Casias and Robert Sanchez.

We would like to give a special thanks to Lydia Alfaro for helping care for our mom for the last few years. She will always have a special place in our hearts for the love and care she gave to our mom. We would like to thank the entire team at Ambercare for the love and care given to our mom, especially her nurse, Melissa and her health care aid, Kerri.

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

 

Joe N. Mares

1939-2021

Joe N. Mares, age 82, a resident of Rio Communities, passed away on Sept. 14, 2021.

Joe was a member of Our Lady of Belen Parish, Navy EOD Association American Legion Post 81 and Underwater Swimmers School.

Joe was preceded in death by his daughter, Linda L. Richards; son, Victor Mares; parents, Juan and Marita Mares; and brothers, Rudy and Julio Mares.

He is survived by the love of his life of 53 years, Dolores; daughters, JoAnn (Joel), Christina and Carmie (Robert); son-in-law, Jeff Richards; 10 grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. Also surviving are siblings, Ruth Gonzales, Mabel Mares, John Mares, Jerry Mares and Lorraine Ashford.

Joe spent 26 years in the Navy, earning the rank of lieutenant commander. He completed six tours in Vietnam, three in country and three on ships, the last one being the Coral Sea. He also participated in experimental diving operations. He was the recipient of two Bronze Stars, as well as many other commendations.

He was funny, intelligent, gentle and though sometimes quiet, his silence spoke volumes. He always gave the best advice and supported his family. He had many talents; he could fix anything, disarm explosives, deep dive a quarter mile, hand craft wood, and was a beautiful painter.

To say we are all devastated to live life without him is an understatement. He will forever be in our hearts and prayers, and we will continue to share his stories, share our memories and feel his presence around us. Our hearts are broken but they are full because he gave us all his love.

All services were held at Our Lady of Belen Catholic Church on Tuesday, Sept. 21.

In lieu of flowers, the family would request that donations be made to Lustgarten Foundation and Saint Jude Children’s Hospital. Arrangements are being handled by the caring professionals at the Noblin Funeral Service Belen Chapel, 418 W. Reinken Ave., 505-864-4448, where an online guest register is available at noblin.com.

Sharon Ilene Ramirez

1933-2021

Sharon Ilene Ramirez, 88, of Los Lunas, went home to be with our Lord after a long illness in the comfort of her home, surrounded by her loved ones on Sept. 5, 2021.

Sharon is preceded in death by her son, Kerry.

She is survived by her children, Fred, Debbie, Christine and Julia. She also leaves behind five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

She was a devoted mother, grandmother and friend to many. Sharon was very involved in the community. She was a master gardener, member of the Ladies Auxiliary and Audubon Society.

She was involved in the Los Lunas Schools, editor of the Valencia County News, edited and published several medical books and retired from the University of New Mexico School of Pharmacy.

Sharon loved the Lord and was a devout Christian. Please celebrate her passing to a better place where she is now free from pain. She loved the great outdoors, working and gardening in the yard, as well as identifying numerous birds. She was also an incredible naturopath.

The memorial service was held on Sunday, Sept. 19, in Los Lunas, on the grounds of the family estate. Presiding over the service was Pastor Marlow Frasier.

Arrangements were handled by the caring professional, Stephen Lopez, of Riverside Funeral Home in Los Lunas. Please visit our online tribute book to share memories of Sharon with her family at riversidefunerals.com.

 

MaryAnn (Moya) Rodriguez

Died 2021

MaryAnn (Moya) Rodriguez was welcomed into the Kingdom of Heaven on Sunday, Sept. 5, 2021, in Greeley, Colo., after a three-year battle with stage 4 cancer. She had just turned 55 years old.

Known to many as Mariana, she was born and raised in Belen. She was the youngest of nine children. She raised her own two children in Los Lunas before relocating to Greeley, Colo. There, she made her home with her second husband, Albert Rodriguez.

She enjoyed spending time with her cherished grandchildren, and attending church to praise her Lord and Savior.

She is preceded in death by both her parents, Andalecio and Mary Moya; her sisters, Tibbie and Barbara; and brothers, Juan, Santos and Eloy.

She is survived by her husband, Albert Rodriguez; children, daughter, Natasha Maddox and husband, Richard, son, Fernando Alcon and Chantel; goddaughter, Mariah Secrest; her most loved and cherished grandchildren, Kira, Maryah, Amaris, Avery, Zeke and Matthew; sisters, Antonia Moya and Joanna Johnston (Randy); brother, Gilbert (Crucita) Moya; and many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service to be held at 1 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 9, at the Fred Luna Multi-generational Center, 197 Don Pasqual Road in Los Lunas for family and close friends.

 

Nila Romero

1938-2021

Nila Romero, age 82, a resident of Los Lunas, passed away on Wednesday, Sept. 15, 2021.

She was born on Oct. 25, 1938, in Los Chavez. Nila was a world traveler and retired educator, and her love of life didn’t come to an end with her death. She passed away surrounded by her loved ones, who will continue to honor her legacy by living their lives to the fullest.

Nila is preceded in death by her husband, Clovis Romero, whom she loved deeply and thought about every day; parents, Cristobal and Placida Cordova; granddaughter, Lacy; and her brother, Ismael “Smiley” Cordova.

She is survived by her sister-in law, Kandy Cordova; children, Ron, Matthew (Lucretia) and Michael Romero, and Celina (Rance) Hall; grandchildren, Daniel, Jessica, Ronda, Rhiannon, Stephanie and Adam, Rene and Charli, Clovis and Gabrielle, Rebekah and James; her great-grandchildren, Laci Anna, Jessen James, Swayze Rance, Rosalynn Lucia, Mila Isabelle, Rowen James; and many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Nila had a love of the arts, and volunteered as an usher at the Hispanic Cultural Center and the Albuquerque Little Theater. She enjoyed sharing this love with her family.

Nila loved Jesus and participated at Our Lady of Belen and volunteered at the St. Vincent De Paul ministry. But mostly, Nila was a loyal and devoted sister to Kandy, a good friend to many, and a loving daughter, sister, mother, aunt, cousin and friend.

She lived her life to the fullest and loved to travel not only around the country, but around the world. She mailed many a postcard from China, France, Spain, Vietnam, Africa, England and Tibet, just to name a few.  Her absolute favorite place of destination was Costa Rica, where she has many friends and shared her love of Costa Rica with family by taking them with her to enjoy the beauty of the island and her friends.

World traveler, Nila Romero, has now arrived at the ultimate and greatest destination — to be with our Lord Jesus Christ and all loved ones who have gone before her.

A vigil memorial service and Rosary were held on Tuesday, Sept. 21, at Romero Funeral Home Chapel, with a gathering of friends and family immediately afterward.

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

 

Maddux Christopher Saul

2004-2021

Maddux Christopher Saul was born June 26, 2004, to Jim Saul and Kristen Brown, of Albuquerque. He went home to join our Lord at the young age of 17.

He is preceded in death by his grandmother, Roberta Saul.

He is survived by his loving parents, Jim and Kristen; sister, Alissa Brown; uncles, Jacob, Justice and Jason Saul; his Papa, Chris Saul; and grandfather, Harold Brown; as well as countless friends and teammates from both here in New Mexico and in Fruita, Colo., where he lived for six years of his young life.

Maddux was always bringing joy and happiness to everyone he came into contact with. He touched so many lives in his short time here on Earth. He was known for his lengthy curly hair and his infectious smile that seemed to always be painted on his face.

He loved to play baseball and was a truly gifted young man who had the potential to make his dreams of playing in the MLB a reality. With a name like Maddux, he was destined to be a baseball player.

He loved going to the movies and spending time with the many friends he made throughout his life. He was a natural at everything he did. Playing golf with his dad, throwing a ball for his beloved dog, Steve, and playing video games with his uncle, Jacob, were just some of the many things he loved.

He will be tremendously missed by everyone. There won’t be a day that goes by that he will not be on our minds. We love and miss you so much Maddux.

Services will be held at 3 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 25, at First Assembly of God Church in Belen.

 

Henry “Hank” Vignali

1925-2021

Henry “Hank” Vignali, age 96, a resident of Belen, peacefully passed in his home on Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021.

He was a member of Our Lady of Belen Catholic Church and the Belen VFW post. Henry was a Marine gunner during WWII. He worked for TWA, and raised his family in New York.

He and his wife, Lucy, moved to New Mexico and continued their happy life with his family and friends.

Henry was preceded in death by loving wife of 72 years, Lucy.

He is survived by his son, Anthony; daughter, Theresa Dazzo and husband, Joseph; sister, Gina; six grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. Henry is also survived by many other loving family members.

Arrangements are being handled by the caring professionals at the Noblin Funeral Service Belen Chapel, 418 W. Reinken Ave., 505-864-4448, where an online guest register is available at noblin.com.