Obituaries (Sept. 24)

Adella Aguilar

Died 2020

Adella Aguilar went home to be with the Lord Jesus on Aug. 18, 2020.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Tony and Eva Aragon; and two young daughters, Evangelina and Anotinette Aguilar.

Adella is survived by her loving and attentive husband of 45 years, Tony Aguilar.

She also left behind three grandchildren, Tony, Shane and Delilah; sisters, Debra and Darlene; sister-in-law, Patsy; and many extended family members and friends.

She now rests in the arms of the Savior and reunites with her two beautiful daughters.

George Joe Armijo

Died 2020

George Joe Armijo, 26, a resident of San Pedro, N.M., passed away Friday, Sept. 11, 2020.

He was born in Socorro to Julian E. Armijo and Palma Lyons. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends. He also loved to mudbog with his Monkey Mafia.

George Joe loved working on trucks, cars and heavy equipment. He graduated from Lincoln Tech in Denver, Colo., with a certificate in diesel technology and worked at WRS in Albuquerque, where they treated him as family.

He is survived by his beloved son, Draven Joe Armijo; parents, Julian E. Armijo and wife, Troylyn, and Palma Lyons and Natalie Malone; brothers, Anthony Malone, Julius Armijo and Isaac Armijo; sisters, Guadalupe Avalos and Marie Contreras; grandfather, Evaristo “Tito” Armijo; grandmother, Morayma Contreras; grandfather, George Joe Contreras; as well as many other family members and friends who loved and will miss him.

He touched so many people’s hearts in all walks of life. His heart and life was his son, Draven, for whom he worked endlessly to provide him with everything he wanted.

He was also a loving son and grandson. He went on numerous trips with his grandmother, Lola Lopez, for her cancer treatments in Houston, Texas.

Services will be held at San Miguel Church in Socorro on Friday, Sept. 25. A Rosary will be recited at 9:30 a.m., followed by the Mass of Christian Burial being celebrated at 10 a.m. and burial at the San Pedro Cemetery in San Pedro, N.M.

Pallbearers are his brothers, Anthony Malone, Julius Armijo and Isaac Armijo; and dear friend, Otis Murphy. Honorary pallbearers are cousins, Korbyn Armijo-Pemble, Michael Roberts, Estevan Lopez, David Torres and Floyd Savedra; and dear friend, Isaac Chavez.

Don Barker

1935-2020

The world lost a loving soul on Sept. 8, 2020. Donald Clinton Barker was born on Jan. 20, 1935, in Albuquerque, to Charles and Iantha “Irene” Barker.

Donald spent most of his life in New Mexico. In his early teens, he spent summers working on a family ranch in Datil, near Magdalena, with his uncle, Guy Spears.

Don Barker started his professional career as an HVAC and sheet metal worker before transitioning into selling real estate in 1969 thanks to his childhood friend, Jerry Vernon. Don loved helping folks sell or find their dream home. He was a top producing Realtor year after year, and one of the original members of the Greater Albuquerque Board of Realtors.

He had his own real estate office, and worked with many other real estate companies, but he never left his passion for music and his true calling and dream of entertaining folks with his authentic country and western music.

He was self-taught and bought his first Gibson acoustic guitar when he was 18. Don loved the classic country and western artists of the time. Hank Williams, Marty Robbins, Johnny Cash, Ray Price were a few of his favorites.

Don was close friends with the late country star Glen Campbell, who helped jump-start Don’s career as a musician. Glen would arrange for recording sessions in Nashville, Tenn., where Don recorded “Brand New Way of Hurting Me,” “The Runt,” “The Party’s Over” and many others.

Don played bass and rhythm guitar, but was most well-known for his “golden voice” as a country singer. Don played with several bands in Albuquerque and the surrounding area but he’s most known for his own band, Don Barker and the Don’s at the Homestead.

Don was a staple in the Valencia County community. He was a devout member of the Church of Christ, but music really was his church. He was a Shriner with the Ballut Abyad Patrol and sponsored local sports and charities.

In 1976, Don purchased and ran the Homestead Saloon, another contribution to the community. Don would sell real estate during the day and manage the Homestead at night while also performing and leading his own band.

He touched many lives and had many lifelong friends. But being surrounded by family is what made Don happiest. Don was a loving father, grandfather and great-grandfather.

He was preceded by his wife, Doryne Barker.

Don is survived by his three daughters, Dawn Barker, Deidre Barker and Gillian Barker; as well as his four grandchildren, Brandon Rouckus and wife, Kailtin Rouckus, Kyle Rouckus, Gavin Barker and wife, Elisabeth White and Shileen Barker; and one great-grandson, Lucas Cooper.

A celebration of his life event will be held at the Bosque Farms Community Center, 950 N. Bosque Loop, Bosque Farms, from noon to 4 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 3.

Isabel Sanchez Caire

1935 -2020

Isabel Sanchez Caire, age 84, passed away on Sept. 15, 2020.

She was a resident of Los Lunas, and was born and raised in Los Chavez. Isabel managed several motels in Albuquerque for many years and retired from that industry.

She was a woman who leaves us with pride and dignity, for the love she left throughout her lifetime. Isabel was a woman who shared her love with anyone she came across. She loved doing yard sales, the casino, but most importantly, she loved her family. Isabel always made sure they had what they needed and if she didn’t have it, she would find it.

She never hesitated to give you anything she had, but she always made sure she gave you her heart and beautiful smile. Her impact on those who came across her will never be forgotten, but certainly will be missed.

Isabel is preceded in death by her first husband, Silvestre Sanchez; and second husband, Leo Caire; son, Silvestre Jr.; daughter, Angela; grandchildren, Billy Candelaria, John Sanchez, Silvestre Sanchez and Marlysa Sanchez.

She is survived by daughter, Rosalina Candelaria (Antonio Lucero); son, Juan P. (Janice) Sanchez; grandchildren, Marcos, David, Vicky and Michelle; great-grandchildren, Virginia, Emily, Delilah, Ambrose Jr., Hazel, Eliohn, David Jr., Elise and Elena; five great-great grandchildren; two sisters, Ramona Moya and Emma Baca.

Services will take place on Thursday, Sept. 24, at Our Lady of Belen Catholic Church, beginning with a public viewing at 9 a.m., a Rosary to be recited at 10 a.m., a Funeral Mass at 10:30 a.m. Interment will take place at 1:30 p.m., Friday, Sept. 25, at Santa Fe National Cemetery.

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

Yvonne S. Chavez

1968-2020

Yvonne S. Chavez, age 58, a resident of Valencia, passed away on Sept. 14, 2020. She entered into eternal rest to be with our Lord Jesus Christ.

Yvonne was the youngest of three. She was a resident of Ruidoso for 20 years, but recently moved back a year ago to be with our Mom. Yvonne enjoyed going to the casino, shopping and playing video games. When she was younger, she loved getting dressed up and going dancing.

One of Yvonne’s great joys was her dog, Jessie, being her playful companion for 13 years. They were inseparable. She will be missed by many. Yvonne was a very giving, loving person. The Chavez family would like to thank everyone for your prayers, thoughts and friendship.

Yvonne was preceded in death by her father, Sisto Chavez.

She is survived by her mother, Carol Chavez; sister, Liz and husband, Jon Sevin; brother, Andrew and his wife, Bernice Chavez and their children, Aaron and Samantha; niece, Andrea, daughter of Andrew and Sandra and her husband, Brian Caldwell; great niece, Alaina; and great nephew, Logan; and for 20 years, Johnny Padilla was her partner.

Services are pending.

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

Joyce Cordova

Died 2020

Joyce Cordova, age 65, beloved mother, sister and friend, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2020.

She was born in Albuquerque, and moved to Los Angeles, Calif., when she was 2 years old. Joyce grew up in California and raised her family there, then later moved to New Mexico for the slower pace of life.

She worked to support her family throughout her life, and worked as a fitness instructor, a costume designer for a band in North Hollywood and a florist. Joyce would tell you her proudest title was being a mom. She had a strong faith in God.

Joyce loved gardening, flowers, baking and eating cookies, rock and soul music, such as Stevie Nicks and the Supremes, laughing and dancing. Her smile would light up a room.

In 2005, Joyce was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and later Lewy Body dementia. She will be greatly missed by all that knew her.

Joyce is preceded in death by her mother and father, Libby and Frank Cordova; and brothers, Mickey and Candy.

She is survived by her daughters, Amber and Brande; sisters, Terrie and Marie; brother, Joe; and many nieces and nephews.

Mom you are never far, always close in heart. You are free. Fly high our sweet Angel.

Services were held at Romero Funeral Home Chapel on Friday, Sept. 18.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation in her honor.

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

Gerald “Jerry” Frazier

1950-2020

Gerald “Jerry” Frazier was called to be with our Heavenly Father on June 21, 2020, after a short battle with cancer.

Jerry was born on June 1, 1950, to parents Robert and Evelyn Frazier. He was one of five children. He lived a short time in Iowa then came to New Mexico, where he met and married the love of his life, Emily. They had three children, Jerry Jr., Andrew and Wendy.

Jerry was drawn to people and anything with an engine. He enjoyed racing automobiles, boating, riding motorcycles and building classic cars, including race cars and rat rods. Jerry owned and operated a salvage yard in Albuquerque for more than 20 years.

At his salvage yard, he could fulfill his connection to people and automobiles. He was always willing to help anyone in need. His generous, loving heart and brave spirit will be missed dearly.

Jerry is preceded in death by the love of his life, Emily; son, Andrew; father, Robert; mother, Evelyn; two brothers, Ronnie and Danny; many nieces and friends who Jerry considered family.

Jerry is survived by his son, Jerry Jr.; daughter, Wendy; son in-law, Randall; two sisters, Joann and Donna; brother in-law, Charles; seven grandchildren, one great-grandchild, many nieces, nephews and friends who Jerry considered family.

A celebration of Jerry’s life will be held at Dam Site Lodging on N.M. 177 in Truth or Consequences on at 1 p.m., Saturday Sept. 26. For those unable to attend, questions or memories you would like to share please email [email protected].

Florinda “Flora” Helen Lovato

1942-2020

Florinda “Flora” Helen Lovato, at age 78, was called by the Lord on Sept. 1, 2020.

Flora was born May 5, 1942, in Sabinal, N.M. She was known for her kind and friendly nature.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Héctor Martinez; her parents, Manuel and Casanita Vigil; and her sisters, Jenny Garley and Ramona Peralta.

Flora is survived by her sister, Lorela Silva; her brother, Fermine Vigil; her sons, Adam Chavez and his fiancé, Susan Peter, and Ronald Chavez, and his wife, Theresa Chavez; her daughters, Lorraine Lovato and Maria Garley; her grandchildren, Amanda, Amber, Andrea, Claireace, Kevin, Antonio, Braden and Destiny; her great-grandchildren, Jeremiah and Jazmine; and many great friends.

A private funeral services were held for family and friends.

Johnny Maldonado

1936-2020

Johnny Maldonado, age 84, born in March 1936, passed away on Sept. 16, 2020, following a long illness.

After serving his country in the Army, he was employed by the city of Albuquerque before moving on to APS. Johnny retired from APS after more than 30 years, most of them spent at West Mesa High School, Sandia High School and Rio Grande High school.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Emma; parents and several siblings.

Johnny is survived by his daughters, Bridget Serna (Joseph), Judy Bergam (Ed) and Margaret Rael; sisters, Helen Gurule and Esther Gonzales; brother, Tony Maldonado; 12 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren.

Services will take place on Monday and Tuesday, Sept. 28-29, beginning with a public viewing at 4 p.m., Monday, Sept. 28, and a Rosary at 5 p.m. at Romero Funeral Home Chapel, and continued on Tuesday, Sept. 29, at Our Lady of Belen Catholic Church with a final visitation at 9 a.m., a Funeral Mass at 10 a.m. Interment to follow at Our Lady of Belen Memorial Gardens. Masks are required.

Pallbearers are Ronnie Sandoval, Sam Bergamo, John Serna, Jose Rael, Gabriel Maldonado and Phil Maes.

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

Joan Page

1949-2020

Joan Page, born Feb. 3, 1949, died Sept. 10, 2020.

Born in the Bronx, N.Y., she was the daughter of George and Alice Mollenhauer, sister to Susan Playford.

She is survived by her children, Miranda Wilcox, Jason, Timothy and Daniel Bourke.

Joan grew up in the Hudson Valley region of New York state. She attended Mercy College, where she earned her bachelor’s of xcience. She worked in the phlebotomy lab of an engineering firm, where Joan met Mike Bourke. The two eventually married and she gave birth to two children, Jason and Miranda.

Joan and Mike later moved to New Mexico, settling in the town of Mountainair, where she gave birth to two more children, Timothy and Daniel. Her strong will knew no bounds as she gave birth to all four children — naturally — at home. She was a dedicated mother, who worked hard to ensure that her children had the best well-rounded education she could provide.

Joan pursued multiple interests throughout her life, including becoming the librarian for the town of Mountainair for several years. During that time, she completely renovated the interior and exterior of the local library, bringing new interest and life into the building. Her tireless efforts brought the bookmobile to town on a regular basis and introduced children of all ages to the wonders of reading.

Joan was a social and vibrant person. She loved having conversations with people and brought life to any social gathering. Her commitment to service continued beyond the library and into the public-school system,where she became an elementary school teacher. It was here that she discovered her strong passion for teaching children. This passion led her to pursue a master’s degree at New Mexico Tech and provided her with a fulfilling career for multiple decades.

Joan eventually left Mountainair but continued to teach at The Ranches in Bernardo. Her passion for teaching and her patience with struggling learners provided a brighter future to generations of students that would otherwise have been lost to the system.

Aside from teaching, Joan was an avid chocolatier, producing delectable products that she sold at local fairs. Her love of the macabre was well known, and a trip to her house during Halloween was always a treat for young children and adults alike.

She was a devoted mother, teacher and friend. Her absence has left the world a little duller and a lot quieter, but the inspiration and positivity that she brought to so many people’s lives, will continue to honor her memory.

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

Macario “Mac” Rodriguez

1945-2020

Macario “Mac” Rodriguez died peacefully on Sept. 4, 2020, in Nashville, Tenn.

He was born in Aragon, N.M., and moved to Belen with his family in 1955. He graduated from Belen High School in 1964, and upon graduation, joined the Army. He was stationed in Ft. Carson, Colo.

After serving honorably for the Army, Macario headed to California, where he spent 27 years of creating a busy, active life for himself. He attended an LA city college, studying performing arts. He enrolled in fiction writing courses, took guitar lessons and auditioned for (and landed) roles in both community and LA college theater productions.

After spending 27 years in California, Macario decided to move back to New Mexico and spend more time with his true passion — music. He not only received his Associate of Arts degree, he also received nominations for best song-instrumental, best musical production, and best music-blues for the New Mexico “MIC” Awards, which is a statewide competition, for his album while living in Albuquerque.

In 1995, Macario decided to head east and moved to Nashville, Tenn. While in Nashville, Macario worked at and retired from Remarketing Solutions.

Macario is preceded in death by his parents Jose and Sofia Rodriguez, and 10 brothers and sisters.

He is survived by two very special sisters, Dahlia and Jenny; two brothers, Avelicio and Raymond; two special nieces, Michelle and Melanie; and numerous other nieces and nephews.

Services will be held at a later date as Macario donated his body for science research at Vanderbilt Hospital.

Tina Sue Smith

Died 2020

Tina Sue Smith, age 62, passed away on Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2020.

Please visit our online guest book for Tina at FrenchFunerals.com. FRENCH – University, 1111 University Blvd. NE, 843-6333.

Anna Marie Wallace

1973 -2020

Anna Marie Wallace, age 47, a resident of Los Lunas, passed away on Sept. 16, 2020.

A funeral service will be held at 5 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 24, at First Baptist Church of Los Chavez, with Brother Boyd presiding.

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