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ABEYTA -- John Joseph. J.J. passed away unexpectedly on July 29, 2007. He was born on July 30, 1965. He is survived by his daughter, Amber Abeyta; his mother, Chris "Nana" Abeyta; and his sister, Carol Draper. He is also survived by his dear aunts, Cleo Anaya, Nila Ramirez, Elizabeth Fresquez, and a step-daughter, Elicia Summons. He leaves many, many great friends, family and associates. JJ's epitaph will forever read: "He was too good for this Earth" A celebration of JJ's life will take place on Sunday, August 12,2007, at :00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at American Legion Post 69 at 9000 4th Street N.W. Family, friends and associates, are invited to share memorable moments about J.J. at this celebration of his precious life.
        Published on: Mon August 06, 2007

ALARID -- Michael. Senator Michael Alarid Sr., "Tata," age 88, passed from this world peacefully holding his family's hands, surrounded by people who adored him, Wednesday morning, August 1, 2007. He will be greeted in heaven by is beloved wife of 66 years, Stella, "Nana," who we lost this past January. He will also be greeted in heaven by his dear departed daughter, Renee; and grand daughter, Denise; mother Eutemia; and father, Victor. Tata is survived by his sister, Vangie, of Trinidad; children, Michael and wife, Barbara, Elizabeth and husband, Stephen, Estella, Luciana, and Celena; his grandchildren, Jason; his wife, Chevonne, Michelle, their mother, Susan, Vanessa, Roberto, Renee, Tara, and Michael III; and great grandchildren, Renee, Isaiah, Elizabeth, Gabriela, Angelica and Valdejan. Tata was born March 13, 1919 in Trinidad, Colorado. He grew to have an unequaled work ethic, surviving the great depression in the Colorado Rockies, working as a lumber jack and in the coal mines, amongst many other jobs, that ultimately shaped him into the giant spirit that sheltered and nurtured his entire family. Graduating high school at the top of his class, at nineteen, he set off to make his future, with only a duffel bag, stopping along the way to California, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Before Tata was able to get on his way, a young, beautiful Stella Salazar, "Nana," stopped him in his tracks, and the rest was history. They married just to be soon split apart. Tata enlisted and spent WWII in the United States Navy, in the Pacific, with Nana waiting in San Diego. After the war, they returned to Albuquerque to raise a family. Ultimately, he opened an insurance agency and opened Mike's Food Store at 4th and Atlantic in the Barelas neighborhood, which survived from 1952 to 1985. Working seven day 100 hour, work weeks, he built "Mike's" into the number one independent grocery store west of the Mississippi river by the end of the 1950's. He was physically formidable and imposing. It was common to see him with an entire side of beef over one shoulder, then butchering it by hand. He was tough as nails, and more than a few would be shoplifters regretted seeing Mike charging down the isle from the back of the store. But just ask, and he would give you the shirt off his back. Every Christmas, he prepared food boxes for two to three hundred of Barelas, Martinez Town and San Jose families. Every "egg" box was filled, over flowing with food. Each had a frozen turkey and canned ham as well as assorted essentials like bread, pasta, eggs, potatoes, bacon and flour, and canned goods. He extended credit to hundreds of low income, local families. He established trusted relationships with those whom the establishment shunned, and boasted, after 39 years in business, only $430.00 in uncollected credit accounts receivables. But that was not enough. Tata had a resolute sense of ethics and civic responsibility that drove him into public service and politics. He served on numerous civic and professional boards, and with non-profit organizations. He was an American Legion Post 72 commander, and State Commander, and active in the VFW and Elks. He was a champion for education, worker and middle class rights, and a criminal justice system with a focus on vocational rehabilitation, and tax relief for the poor, and the environment. Politically, Tata hit the ground running and never looked back. He served in the New Mexico House of Representatives, District 25, from 1964 to 1966. In 1966, he took the Senate seat for District 34, where he served until 1972. In 1968, he ran for Lieutenant Governor on the ticket with Fabian Chavez, losing by 160,140 to 157,230 votes, state wide. In 1972, he then gave up his Senate seat to run for United States Congress unsuccessfully against incumbent, Manuel Lujan, Jr. In 1974 he ran for Mayor, endorsed by both the Albuquerque Journal and Tribune. He returned to the New Mexico State Senate for District 12, and served for an additional 22 years until 1992. During it all, he managed to get a bachelors degree from the University of New Mexico and attend two years of law school, leaving only when his son attended Creighton University, and, of course, to run for office again. During his tenure in the Senate, he championed the founding of TV-I, the UNM medical school, the Unfair Trade Practices Act, the Public schools Finance Act, and early retirement for police and fire at 20 years, considering these his greatest accomplishments. For eight years, he was Senate Democratic Leader/Majority Floor Leader from 1981-1988. He stayed up late at night and read every piece of legislation three times and re-wrote his speeches 10 times. His reputation for work ethic, knowledge, eloquence, and integrity was legendary at the round house. He was never unprepared, and his hand shake was as good as gold. He brokered ground breaking legislation, creating compromise, across party lines, from logic and intellect, instead of brute force. After closing Mike's Super Market, his retirement consisted of working full time for TV-I as Community Liaison, and then, Assistant to the Vice President of Administration, where he continued to champion education. Finally deciding to come home at 77, Tata became the consummate softie, relishing in his garden, eating Nana's famous red chili, and rejoicing over family and his children, grand children, and great grand children, as the most important things in life. He continued to love to follow and gossip about politics, always with an astute opinion and solution. In the end, Nana's leaving broke his heart. Thank God he now has found peace. The shadow you leave is gigantic. You and Nana were so loved, and we will miss you. The family will receive friends and loved ones beginning at 7:00 P.M. Monday, August 6, 2007 at The Daniels Family Funeral Service (formerly Strong-Thorne Mortuary), 1100 Coal Ave. SE and will celebrate his life with a Rosary service beginning at 7:30 P.M. A Catholic mass will be held in his honor at Immaculate Conception Church in downtown Albuquerque at Sixth and Copper, Tuesday, August 7, 2007 at 10:30 a.m. The public is welcome at both services. Daniels Family Funeral Service 7601 Wyoming Blvd. NE Albuquerque, NM 87109 505-821-0010
        Published on: Mon August 06, 2007

BLACK -- Jennie J. Black, 85, a resident of Albuquerque since 1963 died Friday, August 3, 2007. She leaves behind to honor and celebrate her life her three daughters, Lois Hughes and husband, Robert of Albuquerque, Marilynn Burke and husband, Henry, of Omaha, NE and Karen Fisher of Albuquerque; six grandchildren, Robyn, Heather, Brian, Meredith, David and Daniel; eight great-grandchildren, Zachary, Joshua, Levi, Wyatt, Katie, Wade, Lane, and Sarabeth; and one brother, Stanley Kanz of WI. Jennie was preceded in death by her husband of 64 years, Earl Black; her parents, Ida and John Kanz; and brother, Alden Kanz. She was born on June 23, 1922 in Shawano, WI. Jennie was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church. She served as a volunteer for the Sun City Sheriff's Posse for 12 years. Jennie was a loving mother, grandmother and friend to many and will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Cremation has taken place and a memorial service will take place on Friday, August 10, 2007, 2:00 p.m. at Trinity United Methodist Church, 3715 Silver, SE, Albuquerque, NM 87108. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Trinity United Methodist Church. Jennie's family would like to express a special thank you to Haven Care Assisted Living, and especially the loving care by Carol and Lisa. They are also grateful for the services provided by Amber Care Hospice, especially Margie and Dana. French Mortuary, Inc. 10500 Lomas Blvd. NE (505) 275-3500 www.frenchmortuary.com
        Published on: Mon August 06, 2007

BRUINGTON -- George Harry Bruington Jr., 95, a longtime resident of Albuquerque, passed away Wednesday, August 1, 2007. He is survived by his grandson, Rick Aragon, of Los Lunas; great-grandchildren, Ricky, Laila, Jennifer, James, and Paul Aragon; five great-great grandchildren, and many devoted nieces, nephews, family members, and friends. He was preceded in death by his cherished wife of 58 years, Ila Marie (McCray) Bruington; his brothers, Gene, Grafton, John, Charles, Jim, and Bob; sisters, Emeline Bruington and Rowena Sherwood, and an infant brother; daughter Gwen Aragon and grandchildren Jimmy and Pamela Aragon. The eldest of ten children, George was born to George H. and Rowena (Bird) Bruington on April 15, 1912 in Stephensville, TX. He graduated from Santa Fe High School in 1930. George was a CCC Boy in the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1930's and worked projects throughout New Mexico. He and his wife Ila were rockhounds and loved to explore the southwest together in their RV. He was a veteran of World War II having served as a Sergeant in the Army in the SW Pacific. George worked as a technician in centrifuge testing and retired from Sandia National Laboratories in 1972 after 20 years of service. He was wonderful and kind-hearted, independent and generous, caring and selfless. Everyone that met him simply loved him. This precious man will be dearly and profoundly missed. Cremation has taken place and this beloved man will be laid to rest beside his wife Ila at Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery. Knowing George's compassionate and gentle nature, should friends desire, memorial contributions may be made to any children's or veteran's charities. As per George's wishes no services will be held.
        Published on: Mon August 06, 2007

CLOWE -- Grace Campbell Clowe, 72, a resident of Albuquerque since 1983, passed away on Wednesday, August 1, 2007. Grace was born July 20, 1935 the daughter of Melvin F. and Frances M. Frnka Campbell in Eagle Lake, Texas. She was a loving mother, grandmother, and friend to all who knew her. Grace was a devoted member of the Asbury United Methodist Church. She is survived by four children, Lisa Waddill and husband, Daniel of Dallas, TX, Laurie Chase of Salt Lake City, UT, Kevin Clowe and wife, Terrie of Albuquerque, NM, and Cindy Lacy and husband, Rusty of Sugarland, TX; six granddaughters, Meredith and Elizabeth Waddill, Paige Raybon, Kimber Clowe, Susan and Sharon Lacy; and one brother, Melvin Campbell of Bay City, TX. A private Memorial Service will be held per Grace's request. In memory of Grace, memorial contributions may be made to a charity of one's choice. Arrangements by Daniels Family Funeral Services 4310 Sara Rd. Rio Rancho, New Mexico 892-9920
        Published on: Mon August 06, 2007

GARCIA -- DELUVINA IN LOVING MEMORY OF DELUVINA GARCIA AUGUST 6, 1939 TO MAY 30, 2007 Beautiful Mom we miss you so much Beautiful Nana we love you so much We're lost in the day without hearing your voice Or seeing your smile But not lost like Dad Who misses his perfect wife We long for the day when we will reunite In the glory that is called heaven Beautiful mom We love you and miss you HAPPY BIRTHDAY Your Family
        Published on: Mon August 06, 2007

GATEWOOD -- Esther Gatewood, age 80, passed away on Thursday, August 2, 2007 in Albuquerque. She was born to Jose and Adela Candelaria on July 1, 1927 in Denver, CO. After marrying Clarence Gatewood in 1951, she devoted her life to her family and spent it taking care of her children while traveling all over the world with her husband, as he served in the United States Army. In her later life she fought a courageous battle with Cancer and against all odds fought through the pain and discomfort to see her family grow. Esther was very dedicated to 2nd Presbyterian Church. She spent a lot of her time involved in the daily activities of the church. Her father was the minister for over 27 years and married all of his children at 2nd Presbyterian Church. Her love for her family and her church will never be forgotten. Esther was the heart of her family. She is survived by her two sons, Donald Gatewood and wife, Evelyn, David Gatewood and wife, Lynn; eight grandchildren, Anna Gatewood-Hobbs and husband, Christopher, Daniel Gatewood and wife, Lisa, Christopher Hulliger, Donna Gatewood-Minson, and husband, Travis, Miguel Gatewood, Barbara Gatewood, Marcus Hulliger, and Nicole Gatewood; four great-grandsons, Chaz Gatewood, Elijah Teachey, Steven Teachey and Travis Minson, Jr; two brothers, Carlos Candelaria and Joe Candelaria and wife, Priscilla; and two sisters, Lena De Herrera and Ruth Boelman and husband, Daryl. Esther is preceded in death by her husband, Clarence Gatewood; one daughter, Cheryl Gatewood-Hulliger; a granddaughter, Criselda Gatewood-Teachey; and sister, Fidelia Herrera. Funeral services will be held at 2nd Presbyterian Church on Thursday, August 9, 2007, 10:30 a.m., with Pastor Roberto Woodruff. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to 2nd Presbyterian Church General Fund, 812 Edith Ave. NE, Albuquerque, NM 87102. French Mortuary, Inc. 7121 Wyoming Blvd. NE (505) 823-9400 www.frenchmortuary.com
        Published on: Mon August 06, 2007

HOLSTE -- Esther Lucille Nelson Holste, 97, passed away Thursday, Aug. 2 at her home in Rio Rancho. Esther was born Dec. 7, 1909, in Portal, N.D., and moved with her family to Minneapolis at age 10. She graduated from the University of Minnesota in 1934. Esther was a school librarian for 30 years. She retired in 1975 and began her second career as a volunteer with the Rio Rancho Public Library, work she enjoyed into her 90s. She is survived by sons, Loren, David and Peter (Glenda); sister, Sadie Kreilkamp; six grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and 24 nephews and nieces. She was preceded in death by her husband of 64 years, Merrill. Friends may call at Esther's home from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., Tuesday, Aug. 7. Memorials to the Rio Rancho Public Library
        Published on: Mon August 06, 2007

IRWIN -- Robert Kyle In Loving Memory KYLE ROBERT IRWIN 9/15/80 - 8/6/00 Our precious SON, May the Light of Your LOVE Burn Within Us Until We Meet AGAIN. Peace! Mom, Dad, Grandma & Family
        Published on: Mon August 06, 2007

KING -- Benny C. King went home to be with the Lord on August 2, 2007. Visitations for Benny will be held on Monday, August 6, 2007 between 2:00 and 4:00 p.m. at Daniels Family Funeral Services- Garcia Mortuary. A Rosary will be held on Monday, August 6, 2007 at 7:00 p.m. at St. Annes Catholic Church. A final visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 7, 2007 between 9:30 and 10:00 a.m. with Mass of Christian Burial to be recited on at 10:00 a.m. at St. Annes Catholic Church. Interment will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery. Funeral services are entrusted to: Daniels Family Funeral Services Garcia Mortuary 717 Stover Ave. S.W. 243-5222
        Published on: Mon August 06, 2007

STEELE -- Thomas Lee "T.L." Steele, a lifetime resident of Huntsville, Alabama, born on August 23, 1929, passed away on July 27, 2007. He is survived by his children, Ruthie S. Whitman and husband, Carl of Huntsville, Ala., Mary J. Springs and husband, Larry of Inglewood, Calif., Connie Corn of Escondido, Calif., Tommie L. Steele and wife, Connie of Meridianville, Ala., and Ernie D. Steele and wife, Jamie of Albuquerque; brothers, John "A.C." and Robert Steele of Huntsville, Ala.; 11 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. A graveside service was held at noon on Thursday, August 2, 2007 at Meadowlawn Garden of Peace, Meridianville, Alabama, with Dr. O. Wendell Davis officiating. Royal Funeral Home, 4315 Oakwood Ave, Huntsville, Alabama 35810 (256) 534-8481
        Published on: Mon August 06, 2007

TONIGAN -- Richard "Eric" Tonigan, DDS, passed away suddenly on August 2, 2007. He was born on October 2, 1953 in Arlington, VA to Richard F. and June Tonigan. He is survived by his wife of 23 years Diane; daughter, Jackie; son Drew; father, Richard "Dick" Tonigan; brother, J. Scott Tonigan and wife, Radka, all of Albuquerque; father and mother-in-law, Don and Johnita Moody of Rock Port, MO; sister-in-laws, Dawn Lynch and husband, Doug, Debbie Contreras and husband, Mike, Dona Braniff, all of Omaha, NE. Many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, family and friends. Eric was a 1972 graduate of Manzano High School, University of New Mexico and Creighton University School of Dentistry, Omaha, NE. Member of the Cornhusker Club and Board Member Penn Mont Owners Association. Passionate dentist, fisherman, coach, gardener, and Big Red Fan. As a husband, father, son, brother, in-law, friend and dentist, he was more than amazing. His compassion, happiness and laughter were contagious. All of those whose lives were touched by him will miss him deeply. A celebration of his life will be held at a Memorial Service on Tuesday, August 7, 2007, at 4:00 p.m., Faith Lutheran Church, 10000 Spain Road, NE, Albuquerque. Memorial contributions may be made to Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy, 158 Linwood Plaza, Suite 200, Fort Lee, New Jersey 07024. French Mortuary, Inc. 10500 Lomas Blvd. NE (505) 275-3500 www.frenchmortuary.com
        Published on: Mon August 06, 2007

WILLERS -- Julie A. Willers, 96, passed away Thursday, August 2, 2007. She is survived by her son, Thomas Willers and wife, Christine Adams Willers of Rio Rancho; daughter, Carol Reiburg and husband, Carl of Castle Rock, CO.; 13 grandchildren; her sister, Emma Tracey along with other family members. She was preceded in death by her husband, of 55 years Henry A. Willers. Julie Anne Fodor was born in Alliance, Ohio in 1910. She worked as a Nurse at the Presbyterian Sanatorium, with her husband at Redi-Spuds, at Simington Employment Agency, and as a secretary for the Sandia Conservancy District. She also worked for FD Fogg Company as a sales consultant and as a private duty nurse before retiring in 1972. Julie was active in the First United Methodist Church, a member of the Elks Club along with her husband, sang in the Albuquerque Choraliers, was also involved in the Rio Grande Garden Club, studied and enjoyed arts and crafts, enjoyed dancing very much and liked to travel. A memorial service will be held Saturday 1:00 p.m., August 11, 2007 at French Mortuary 1111 University Blvd. NE. Private Ennichment will take place at Santa Fe National Cemetery. French Mortuary 1111 University Blvd. NE (505) 843-6333 www.frenchmortuary.com
        Published on: Mon August 06, 2007