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ARMIJO -- Melissa Ruth Armijo, 38, went to be with the Lord, July 18, 2009 after a seven year battle with cancer. She is survived by her two daughters Alix Audrianna Barreras, 18, and Catalena Rose Armijo, 10; parents Robert and Cindy Nichols of Corrales NM; and sister Donesa Nichols-Laughlin. She was a special education and science teacher, volunteered at Corrales with her daughters. She was a Girl Scout leader and was active with Pom and Cheer with her daughters. She attended Destiny Center Church of Rio Rancho. A Memorial Service will be held at the family home in Corrales, NM. Melissa was a kind, compassionate, loving daughter, sister, aunt, niece mother and friend. May her spirit be with us all in the sunshine she spread on this earth. We will miss her but she lives on in the lives she touched.
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BOWSER -- Erma F. Bowser, a resident of Albuquerque since 1974, passed away on Friday, July 10, 2009. Erma was born in 1914 in Osterburg, PA. She is survived by two daughters, L. Gene Harrison and husband, Don, and Gail B. Tomlin and husband, Lee, all of Albuquerque; and grandson, Michael K. Williams and wife, Rhonda, of Woodbridge, VA. Erma was preceded in death by her husband, Eugene in 1982; parents, Warren and Maude Feather; and four brothers. Cremation has taken place and cremated remains will be interred in the family plot in Fishertown Cemetery, Bedford County, PA. Erma was a member of Sandia Presbyterian Church since 1998. Memorial Services will be held Wednesday, July 22, 2009, 11:00 a.m., at Sandia Presbyterian Church, 10704 Paseo del Norte NE, with Rev. Dewey Johnson officiating. The families wish to extend their gratitude to all the staff at Las Palomas Nursing and Rehabilitation Center and to the Presbyterian Hospice staff, who gave Erma their love and care for so many months. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to your favorite charity in Erma's name. Please visit our online guestbook for Erma at RememberTheirStory.com French 7121 Wyoming Blvd. NE (505) 823-9400
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BURCH -- Flora M. Burch, loving sister and aunt passed away on Saturday, July 18, 2009 after a short illness. She is survived by her sisters Mary and Arline Burch of the family home her dearest niece Kathy and husband Tony Medley, great-nephew Michael and wife Jolyn Medley all of Albuquerque and great-niece Jennifer Medley of Phoenix. She is also survived by many other nieces and nephews including Jess Burch Jr., Lucille Morris, Lorraine Stebleton, Richard Burch, Charles Burch Jr., Ed Burch, Joann Mares and their spouses. Flora had many close friends and co-workers whom she cherished and held dear. Flora was born and resided in Santa Rosa, NM where she worked as the Guadalupe County Clerk and then County Treasurer. She relocated to Albuquerque in the mid 1950's where she began a career at Sandia Labs, retiring after 29 years in 1984. Pallbearers will be David Palmer, Tony Medley, Michael Medley, Paul Morris, Kevin Burch and Lorenzo Padilla. Honorary Pallbearers are Albert Nelson, Brian McDonald, and Art Gray. Rosary will be recited on Wednesday, July 22, 2009, 7:00 p.m. at French Lomas Chapel, 10500 Lomas Blvd., NE with visitation beginning at 6:00 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday, July 23, 2009, 10:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church, 4020 Lomas Blvd., NE. Interment will follow at Mount Calvary Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in her name to The Good Shepherd Center, 218 Iron SW, Albuquerque, NM 87103 or to Joy Junction, 4500 2nd St SW Albuquerque, NM 87105. Please visit the online guestbook for Flora at RememberTheirStory.com French 10500 Lomas Blvd. NE (505) 275-3500
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CHAVEZ -- Arthur Chavez passed away at the age of 29 years on June 6, 2009 in Red River, New Mexico. He was born in Grants, New Mexico on August 17, 1979. He attended school in both Moriarty and Albuquerque, New Mexico, where he met his elementary school sweetheart, Shyla Martinez. Arthur was a General Contractor who owned his own company Chavez Builders for the past four years. Arthur was a loving father who was devoted to his wife and children. He was an avid outdoorsman who loved fishing and camping. He was also an avid fan of the Miami Dolphins. He was a member of the New Beginnings church and always strived to be kind, loving and supportive to those in need. Arthur is survived by his wife Shyla; his children Arthur Lucero, daughter Erica Chavez and his baby boy Julian Chavez; his father Arturo Avila, his mother Mary Chavez; his grandmother Emilia Chavez; his siblings Chris Chavez and wife Eva of Albuquerque, Belinda Avila and husband Marcos of Santa Fe, Regina Chavez and husband Charles of Albuquerque, Isaac Chavez and wife Teresa of Edgewood, Manuel Chavez, Phillip Chavez and wife Janice; 12 nieces and nephews and many aunts, uncles and cousins. Arthur loved life and his family and always demonstrated a great sense of humor as well as a willingness to lend a hand. He lived his life to the fullest. Arthur was intensely loved and will be much missed by his entire family and all of his many friends. Funeral Services will be held at the New Beginnings church on the corner of Carlisle and Montgomery. The Memorial Service will be Tuesday, July 21, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. The Funeral Service will be Wednesday, July 22, 2009 at 10:00 a.m., with the Burial to follow. The Burial Services will be held at the Sunset Memorial Park on Menaul and Edith. Arrangements in care of RIVERSIDE FUNERAL HOME OF ALBUQUERQUE 225 San Mateo NE 764-9663
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CURTIS -- James B. Curtis, 89, a resident of Albuquerque for many years, passed away on July 18, 2009. He was born September 24, 1919, in Marlborough, Massachusetts. Jim grew up in Marlborough and Grand Rapids, Michigan. Later he lived in Arizona for a few years. Jim came to Albuquerque in early February 1962, for his marriage to Jane Henry. Just one week after the ceremony, they and two friends, Bill and Virginia Jackson, bought an Industrial Supply Business - later named Desert Industrial. It was a big success. He also became involved in community affairs, serving as president of the NM Business Manufacturers Assn., now known as Assn. of Commerce & Industry. Jim served in World War II in the Air Corp. He was a member of the Albuquerque Elks Lodge, Immanuel Presbyterian Church, and the Chaparral RV Club. Jim was a man of many talents. He was a skilled woodworker, working many hours in his home workshops. Jim also built a 1929 Mercedes Roadster and a two seater airplane. He learned to fly and obtained a student pilots licenses at age 76. Jim is survived by his wife, Jane; a sister, Virginia Clark, of Marlborough, MA; a son, Jimmy in Phoenix, AZ; a daughter, Susan Nesmith and her husband, Les, and their son, Justin of Sun City, AZ. His Albuquerque survivors are sons, John David Henry and his wife Pauline, Steven E. Henry and his wife, Beverlee, Jeffrey P. Henry and his wife, Melissa; grandchildren, David Howell, Sandra Hughes, Deborah Johnson, Kari Bloom, Stewart Henry, David Henry, Brian Henry, Cody Henry, Preston Henry; and many great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Jim was preceded in death by his son, Thomas Henry. Cremation has taken place. A Memorial Service will be held Thursday, July 23, 2009, at Daniels Family Funeral Services, Wyoming Chapel, at 2:00 p.m. A Committal Service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to Meals on Wheels, 5701 Harper Road, Albuquerque, NM, 87109. Those who wish to express condolences may do so at www.danielsfuneral.com James' care has been entrusted to: Daniels Family Funeral Services 7601 Wyoming Blvd, NE Albuquerque, NM 87109 (505) 821-0010
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ELIZONDO -- Hector Manuel Elizondo was born December 25, 1961 went into rest July 19, 2009. He was a lifelong resident of Albq. Survived by his wife Lupe; daughters Patricia and husband Martin Valdez, Elicia and her husband Othon Rivas. Grandchildren Martin Valdez, Othon & Gabriela Rivas. Mother Mary Helen Martinez; siblings Juanita, Gilbert, Mario, Anna, Eiman, Frank, Henry, Richard, Robert, Elizabeth, Rafael, Rosemary; and many other family members. Rosary at 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday, July 22, 2009 at St. Anne's Church, 1400 Arenal Rd. SW, followed by Mass at 9 a.m.
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HAGOOD -- Nadine Hagood, a resident of Albuquerque for over 65 years, passed away peacefully in her home at the age of 94. Nadine was a member of First Presbyterian Church for 63 years where she faithfully served in many diverse capacities. She was preceded in death by her son, Dr. Kenneth Hagood of Oklahoma City; and her beloved husband of over 66 years, Wendell Hagood. She is survived by her daughter, Sallie (Sarah) Janpol of Albuquerque; daughter and son-in-law, Nancy and Robert Goolsby of Idabel, Oklahoma; grandson Mark Goolsby and wife Ramona of Idabel, Oklahoma; and two sisters Jessie Owens of Carrollton, Texas and Myra Jean Cunningham of Cookson, Oklahoma. This gracious and classy lady with the gleam in her eye began her teaching career in her hometown of Caddo, Oklahoma and later returned to teaching at Eubank Elementary School in Albuquerque where she taught for 15 years. After retirement, she kept in touch with students via correspondence and they often stopped by to see her. Nadine loved her bridge game, travel, and a great party. Intensely loyal and dependable, she treasured friends and family, and they returned her devotion in equal measure. Nadine was a member of the PEO, the American Association of University Women, and the Knife & Fork Club of Albuquerque. Our profound thanks is offered to her devoted caregivers Zinnia Sillivent, Amelia Trevizo, Laura Noceda, LeeAnne Teahan, and Jeanette Lovato, who adored and lovingly cared for this gallant lady,. They consistently went above and beyond the call of duty. Also, our deepest appreciation is extended to Heartland Hospice for their constant attention to our family's needs. They supported us with caring professionalism and genuine compassion. Services will be held at First Presbyterian Church, 215 Locust NE, July 21, Tuesday at 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts can be made to First Presbyterian Church of Albuquerque or to Heartland Hospice of Albuquerque.
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HOBART -- JoAnn Logan Hobart JoAnn Hobart, 78, of Albuquerque, New Mexico passed away Friday, July 17, 2009 following a long illness. JoAnn was born February 22, 1931 in Springfield, Missouri to Harry and Bertha Logan the third of three daughters. As a child, the family moved to Albuquerque where JoAnn was raised. She attended Albuquerque High School, Hockaday Junior College in Dallas, Texas and the University of Illinois She was active in groups such as P.E.O. and Junior League. She also served on the Board for the Girls Welfare Home, Board of Directors for Presbyterian Hospital, and as Vice-Chair of the Republican Party of New Mexico. JoAnn married Phillip S. (Pete) Hobart in 1952 and had three sons, Jeffrey, Mark, and Peter Hobart. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Pete; her sister Jane Lee Tucker; and her parents Harry and Bertha Logan. JoAnn was strong, vivacious, caring, involved, unselfish, funny, determined, and would do anything for anyone. She was at her best as a prayer warrior for her family and friends and was involved in her local church. JoAnn is survived by her sister, Barbara Weems of Springfield, Missouri; son Jeff and wife Kristy of Austin, Texas; son Mark of Albuquerque; son Peter and wife Lisa of Albuquerque; grandchildren Jeanine, Jeffrey, Josh, Logan, Andrew, Phillip; and great-grandchildren Cali and K.L. In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to the Grace Church Building Fund. Services will be held at Grace Church, 6901 San Antonio Drive, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87109, on Friday, July 24, 2009, at 10:30 a.m.
Left-red    Print Obit   Email-red   Published on: Tue July 21, 2009

KELLER -- Margaret Diane Keller, 42, was called to be with the Lord on Saturday, July 18, 2009. Margaret is survived by her mother, Elaine Rutten and husband, Johan; her father, Walter Keller Sr. and wife, Martha; her brother, Adam Keller and girlfriend Rachel Gonzalez; nephew, Luke Keller; aunt, Carmen Velarde and husband, Ray; and her uncle Dominic Torres and wife, Esmenia; and many other extended family members and friends. Margaret was preceded in death by her grandparents, Domingo and Margarita Torres; and brother, Walter Keller Jr. Margaret graduated from Manzano High School in 1985, and received her Master's degree in Linguistics and Journalism from the University of New Mexico. Margaret taught Spanish at UNM; worked for the State of New Mexico and for Wal-Mart for many years. Margaret was known for her kindness, her willingness to help others, and her love for the Lord. Margaret served the Lord in Costa Rice by ministering to the poor. Visitation will be Wednesday, July 22, 2009 from 6:30 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Gabaldon Mortuary in the Gabaldon Memorial Chapel, 1000 Old Coors Dr. SW, with a Rosary to be recited at 7:00 p.m. by Martha Herrera. Final visitation will be Thursday, July 23, 2009 from 9:30 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. at Aquinas Newman Center, 1815 Las Lomas Rd. NE, with Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 10:00 a.m., Father Thomas Jackson, presider. Pallbearers will be Luke Keller, Anthony Torres, Jerry Velarde, Randy Velarde, Vincent Benavidez and James Organ. Honorary pallbearers will be George Kolesar and Ray Velarde. Arrangements by: Gabaldon Mortuary 1000 Old Coors Dr. SW 243-7861
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LOPEZ -- Reymunda Lopez, 93, of Corrales, was born in Casa Salazar, NM, February 18, 1916. She passed away peacefully on Friday, July 17, 2009. She and the love of her life, Rupert Lopez, were longtime residents of Corrales, NM. When she was not working on the family farm with her husband, she was cooking, sewing and taking care of her grandchildren. Reymunda was preceded in death by her son, Joe Lopez; son-in-law, Enrique Aragon; great-grandson, Elijah Martinez; brothers, Jess and Emilio Lopez and her sister, Florence. She is survived by her loving husband, Rupert Lopez; daughter, Genova Aragon; son, Johnny Lopez; daughter, Theresa and husband Mike Wood; grandchildren, Reina, Reno, Christina, Anthony, Leticia, Andre, AutumnRey, Joe, Michelle and Jennifer; 24 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild; sisters, Theresa, Aurora, Mita and Margie. Reymunda was a wonderful wife, mother and grandmother. On October 29, 2009, Reymunda and Rupert would have celebrated their 70th anniversary. She will be missed and leaves behind wonderful memories of her life. God Bless. A special thank you to Sharon, Melissa and Nicole, her hospice nurses and to Angela, her hospice aide for making her comfortable and peaceful in her final days. Pallbearers will be Reina, Reno, Christina, Anthony, Andre, Patrick and Jerry. Services will be held at San Ysidro Catholic Church in Corrales. A Rosary will be recited on Monday, July 20, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, July 21, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. Burial will follow at the San Ysidro Parish Cemetery. Arrangements by Direct Funeral Services, 2919 4th St, NW, ABQ, 87107. 505-343-8008
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METCALFE -- Russell Miles Metcalfe was born March 27, 1948 to Miles and Mary Ellen Metcalfe. He passed away on Thursday, July 16, 2009 at Elephant Butte, NM. Russell is survived by his son, Doug Metcalfe and girlfriend, Melissa and her son Matthew; daughter, Kimberly Metcalfe and fiance, John Delambre-Melloy; ex-wife, Linda Webb Metcalfe; his sister, Jayne Seamon, (Jack); brother, Jerry Metcalfe (Tina); nephew, Jeremy Metcalfe and nieces, Cynthia Metcalfe-Simons and Missy Kalagher and their families. Russell leaves behind his friend and companion, Barbara Stroud; his beloved, faithful dog, Sierra and many friends and family. He will be greatly missed. Russell worked in the Engineering field for over 35 years, spending the last eight years in Virginia and Utah. He had retired to Elephant Butte in December 2007. Russell loved rodeos and rode bulls in his younger days. He also loved boating and water sports. Russell was a member of VFW Post 1389, American Legion Post 44, The Moose and the Eagles. Funeral Services will be held at St. Paul's United Methodist Church at 9500 Constitution NE, in Albuquerque, NM., on Thursday, July 23, 2009 at 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family asks to have memorial donations sent in Russell's name to the Albuquerque Humane Society, 615 Virginia SE. ABQ, NM. 87108- (505) 255-5523. animalhumanenm.org as he loved his pets and was always rescuing stray animals, or to the Make a Wish Foundation, 144 Louisiana Blvd. NE, Albuquerque, NM 87108, (800) 884-5276 magic@wishnm.org. Arrangements by Direct Funeral Services, 2919 4th St. NW. ABQ. 505-343-8008
Left-red    Print Obit   Email-red   Published on: Tue July 21, 2009

QUINTANA -- Joe V. Quintana, 78, a lifelong resident of Albuquerque died Saturday, July 18, 2009. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Shirley Vigil Quintana; his sons, Joseph O., Raymond I., Stanley V., all of Albuquerque; and daughter, Terese Hibbert and husband, Eric of Livermore, CA.; his grandchildren, Toby Sachs-Quintana of Palo Alto, CA, and Brynn and Cora Quintana of Albuquerque; sister, Emma Gomez of Albuquerque, sister-in-law, Bernice Hadad of Phoenix and several nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents, Isaac and Celia Quintana, also of Albuquerque. Mr. Quintana graduated from St. Mary's High School and proudly served in the United States Navy with Patrol Squadron 8. In 1956, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of New Mexico and retired after 40 years of work in the aerospace and defense industries. Mr. Quintana was a devout Catholic and a parishioner of Annunciation Church. Rosary will be held at Our Lady of the Annunciation Church, 2621 Vermont NE, on Thursday, July 23, 2009, at 8:00 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 8:30 a.m. Interment will be at Santa Fe National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Our Lady of the Annunciation's general fund. Please visit our online guestbook for Mr. Quintana at RememberTheirStory.com French 7121 Wyoming Blvd. NE (505) 823-9400
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ROMERO -- Kenia Romero, 16. A visitation will be Tuesday at Rio Grande 7th Day Adventist Church at 4:30 p.m. followed by wake at 7 p.m. Service will be held Wednesday at 10 a.m. at Rio Grande 7th Day Adventist Church. Burial to follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery. Please visit Kenia's online guestbook at Reflectionoflife.com REFLECTIONS Funerals & Life Celebrations 2400 Washington Street NE 884-5777
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ROYBAL -- Beverly R. Roybal, 27, beloved mother, daughter, sister and girlfriend, passed away July 17, 2009. She was born on March 27, 1982 and was a life time resident of Albuquerque. Beverly is survived by her precious children, Leticia age nine, Estevan age four, and Elias age one; her loving mother, Rachel R. Roybal; her sister, Yolanda Urias and husband David; her brothers, Lorenzo Roybal and wife Sheila, Phillip Roybal and Nicole, and Tomas Apodaca and wife Bridgette; maternal grandmother, Rosanna Roybal; her loving boyfriend, Joey Espinoza; and many other relatives and a host of friends. Beverly will be greatly missed by all. A Rosary will be recited Wednesday at 8:00 a.m. at Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church, where Funeral Services will follow at 9:00 a.m. Inurnment will follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery. At the family's request, in lieu of flowers, Memorial Contributions may be made to the Beverly Roybal Fund, Account Number 86043494, at First Financial Credit Union, P.O. Box 25587, Albuquerque, NM 87125 or by calling (505) 766-5600 opt. #0. Those who wish to express their condolences may do so by visiting www.danielsfuneral.com Beverly's care has been entrusted to: Daniels Family Funeral Services Alameda Mortuary 9420 Fourth Street NW Albuquerque, NM 87114 (505) 898-3160
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SKINNER -- Etta Frazier Skinner, 71, a native of Albuquerque, passed away Saturday, July 18, 2009. She is survived by her husband of 52 years, James F. Skinner; daughter, Stephanie Broderick and husband, Michael of Albuquerque; son, Stephen Skinner and wife, Christy of Edmond, OK; grandchildren, Haleigh and Mackenzie Skinner, Lauren, Zachary, Nate and Michael Broderick, and Michael and Matthew Cordova; siblings, Virginia Edwards, Fred Frazier, Andrew Frazier, and Patricia Dodd. She was preceded in death by a son, James Floyd Skinner III; and brother, Gerald Frazier. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and aunt to numerous nieces and nephews. She dedicated her life to loving and caring for her family and friends. She was family-minded and had a very special way of keeping her family and friends connected. She will be dearly missed by the many people she provided counsel and friendship to on a daily basis. Graveside Services will be held Wednesday, July 22, 2009, 9:00 a.m., at Sunset Memorial Park, 924 Menaul Blvd. NE. Should friends desire, please make contributions to a charity of their choice in her memory. Please visit our online guestbook for Etta at www.RememberTheirStory.com. French 1111 University Blvd. NE. (505) 843-6333
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STARK -- Richard B. Stark May 21, 1923 - July 16, 2009 Richard Bowen Stark, a long time Santa Fe resident, passed away on July 16, 2009 in Albuquerque, NM with family beside him. He was a beloved father and friend. Regarded as an excellent classical pianist, he inspired many of his students, brought a tremendous sense of fun to his playing and performed frequently at local festive events in Santa Fe. Many will remember the special Christmas Eve celebrations at his home where he welcomed friends and passers by, and played and sang carols with them even until his last year. Richard was born in Colorado Springs, CO. His paternal grandfather reputedly did gold leafing on the dome of the Colorado State Capitol. One of Richard's happiest childhood memories was visiting his aunt's ranch near Red Lion, CO where the kids played freely in the streams and in fields, where domestic animals were at the heart of family life, and meals were happy family affairs. After his father died when he was eight years old, his mother raised the family of three children alone. Richard discovered his life's passion, music, at an early age in the local Episcopal choir. At the same time he began the devoted study of piano, which he continued for the rest of his life. Richard was the senior class president in high school. Inspired by the quality of the music faculty, he enrolled at Colorado College, where he met the love of his life and future wife, Mary Lou. WW II took him from his studies to serve in the Philippines. He was a radio operator on a C-47 cargo transport plane, and received an Air Medal, Bronze Star, Good Conduct Medal, and several service medals. He did not discuss his war experiences much after he returned, but the stories he did tell were about the people and cultures that he encountered while overseas. When he returned from the war, he and Mary Lou graduated from Colorado College and were wed. Richard then entered the Masters in Music program at Yale University. After he graduated, Richard took a teaching position at Fisk University in Nashville, TN where he taught piano students and directed a student choir. He and Mary Lou involved themselves in the spirit of the times and led groundbreaking efforts in racial integration, with music and education as the binding glue. There he began his lifelong fascination with folk music traditions, especially gospel music. Being close to the Grand Ol' Opry he also penned some country tunes, including "Just Because You Got a Brand New Air Conditioner Don't Cold Shoulder Me." Richard gave himself to the teaching of music, and developed lasting relationships, not only with his students at Fisk, but throughout his teaching career. While in Nashville they started a family, and two of his three sons, Gregor and Jeffrey, were born there. The family later moved to the East Coast where he taught at Wesleyan University in Middletown, CT. There he met Paul Horgan and other scholars who encouraged Richard's interest in the Southwest, and in 1960 he boldly moved the family to Santa Fe. There he was inspired by his students at Young Junior High School and the seminal film 'And Now Miguel', the story of a Northern New Mexico shepherd boy. This opened a door into the world of rural, agrarian history of Northern New Mexico at a time when such memories were beginning to fade. The stories students told of their parents' and grandparents' lives, formed a deep impression on Richard. He became music curator at the Museum of International Folk Art, and was inspired by working with E. Boyd and others. He authored several publications on Spanish New Mexican folk life and music. A third son, Richard, born soon after the family's arrival in Santa Fe, spent weekends with his father as he toured Northern New Mexico researching and listening to folk customs and music. Richard was invited to teach music at St. John's College beginning in 1965, becoming Musician-in-Residence from '76 to '79. He taught the sophomore music tutorial and other core curricula, led freshman chorus, directed the student chamber music and orchestra, performed in concerts, and worked on a television production for the Public Broadcasting Service where he played with the Dorian Wind Quintet. He gave instruction and inspiration to his students/musicians. He counterbalanced this intense activity by walking to work with his loyal West Highland Terrier dog who loved to sit at his feet when he played the piano. The two often took quiet lunches in Arroyo Chamiso beside the school where he meditated upon the light on the chamisa and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. In 1973, he received a Fulbright grant to study the relationships between Northern New Mexican Spanish religious ballads or alabados and those found in parts of Spain including those of the Sephardic Jews of early Spain. He brought the entire family to Seville, Spain to share the experience and explore Espana. He soon gained the respect and friendship of those he worked with and was for evermore referred to as "Don Ricardo." Once again folk life captured Richard's imagination, from the public rites of Holy Week or Semana Santa, to simple clay pottery. An integral part of Richard's life was his deep involvement in church life and church musicianship. For a period of time he was the early-service organist at The Episcopal Church of Holy Faith in Santa Fe. This post was one in a long series of positions as choir director and organist at churches throughout his life. He was keenly sensitive in his musical selections and had a knack for achieving an inspired effort. Richard loved music, but dedicated himself especially to the piano repertoire and studied it as a true music aficionado and professional. In late life he took piano lessons with master pianist Virginia Mackey, then 98 years of age. At the end of her life, Mackey urged him to write on Bach. "You understand," she said. And so, in his last years, he was preparing to publish a book on the finger exercises Bach wrote for his own children, a book Richard felt contained basics of music that would inform and inspire both beginning and advanced musicians. Above everything, Richard was gracious to his fellow man, adored his three sons, was devoted to his church and enjoyed his modest home. He was endearingly affable and made efforts to engage family members, friends, neighbors, craftsmen, workers, regulars and passer-bys at his local stops in spirited conversation, reaching to find meaningful connections to heritage and traditions. He dedicated himself to Church life and its observances, and his private prayer life sustained him deeply throughout. His small adobe home of many years was adorned simply with folk art and landscape art, and it was also his studio, which he filled with music for family, friends, and the most reflective part of himself. Richard is preceded in death by parents Albert and Ina Stark; brother Albert Stark; and wife Mary Lou Stark. He is survived by his sister; three sons; two grandsons; nieces; nephews; and numerous friends and relations, including a host of former students and colleagues, who share his spirited love of music and teaching. A Funeral will be held at The Episcopal Church of the Holy Faith on Friday, July 24, 2009 at 10 a.m., followed by a Memorial Service in the church hall. The family would like to thank those who helped him in his last illness, especially David Peters MD, Anthony Quay MD, Carl Kupferer MD. Chris Wyndham MD, the staff at Atria Vista del Rio, Dr. Goldman, Diana, Victoria, and the staff at Odyssey Hospice. In lieu of flowers a donation can be made to the International Folk Art Museum in Santa Fe or to Mary Lou's Charity, Partners in Education/Santa Fe Public School - New Teacher Support. Vaya con Dios papa. Arrangements are under the direction of Berardinelli Family Funeral Service 1399 Luisa Street Santa Fe, NM 87505 (505) 984-8600
Left-red    Print Obit   Email-red   Published on: Tue July 21, 2009

WILSON -- Donald Everett Wilson, 81, died at Presbyterian Hospital on Sunday, July 19, 2009, of complications that arose after a recent back surgery. Don, the long-time co-owner and operator of Walker Electronic Supply Company, had been a resident of Albuquerque since December 1958. He was born on October 18, 1927 in Trinidad, CO to Leonard Everett Wilson and Elizabeth Marie (Trinaistich) Wilson. Don served in the US Army for a little over a year, right after the end of World War II and then attended Colorado School of Mines in Golden, CO, graduating in 1952 with a degree in geophysical engineering. After graduation, he worked for Sohio Petroleum Company on a seismic crew exploring for oil, mostly in Wyoming. In December of 1958, he quit and moved to Albuquerque to join his father's business, which was then called Walker Radio Company. Don met his future wife, Audrey Faye Gathright, when he took a year off from the Colorado School of Mines and was working for Century Geophysical Company in Oklahoma. They were married in Elk City, OK on December 26, 1951. Don and Audrey moved around a lot when he was working for Sohio, and during this time their son Michael was born in Houston, TX in 1953 and their daughter Catherine was born in Worland, WY in 1956. Until forced to slow down late in life, Don was always very active. He loved hiking and camping, and bicycled to work until he was no longer able to. Don was active in the Albuquerque Chess Club for many years, and he helped form the Albuquerque High School Chess League, which he ran for 29 years starting in the early 1960's. He was active in the Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts for many years, including being Cubmaster of Pack 189 and Scoutmaster Troop 189, both associated with Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church. Don was also active in other ways with the Church, including doing much work on it's public address system over the years. He enjoyed working with dogs, and got very involved with dog obedience training and competitions, and the Sandia Dog Obedience Club. His dogs were all dachshunds, which are not known for being easy to train. However, Don was quite successful at it, and one of his dogs, Coco, was a top-scoring obedience competitor. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; sister, Dorothy; and his cousins, John and Ernest Malovich and Edith Carroll. Don is survived by his brother, James and wife, Susie; cousin, Elsie Beazley and husband, Roy; son, Michael and wife, Mary Green; daughter, Catherine Bynon and husband, Thomas; and grandchildren, Lorraine Bynon, and Claire and William Wilson. A Rosary will be recited Tuesday, July 21, 2009, 7:00 p.m., at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church, 4020 Lomas Blvd. NE. Mass will be held Wednesday, July 22, 2009, 10:00 a.m., at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church, with interment to follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 7500 Paseo Del Norte NE. Reception will follow at Our Lady of Fatima Parish Hall. Please visit our online guestbook for Don at www.RememberTheirStory.com French 1111 University Blvd. NE (505) 843-6333
Left-red    Print Obit   Email-red   Published on: Tue July 21, 2009