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John Abel Wilburn, 63, passed away January 23, 2004, after a year's battle with pancreatitis and then pancreatic cancer. Born February 4, 1940 in Mountainair, NM, he lived briefly in Belen before the family moved to Albuquerque, where he attended Sacred Heart Elementary School and then graduated from St. Mary's High School in 1958. After graduation, he was a member for a brief time in the Marine Corps, acted in various stage productions as a young man in Albuquerque, worked in sales and most recently for the Albuquerque Sunport as a skycap. He is survived by his beloved wife, Betty; his three children, Shelly, Aaron and Laura; and his two grandchildren, Ashley and Cameron in California; his three children in Albuquerque, Todd, Steven and Amber Wilburn; his sister, Norah Ryan; and four nephews, Michael, Patrick, John and Robert Ryan. He will be remembered as a dearly beloved husband and life-partner, as a devoted father who cared deeply, a sweet and loving brother and as an uncle always willing to be there in a supportive role as mentor and friend. His many friends remember him best as a caring and sensitive friend with a rich sense of humor and a quick wit. John's talents were varied and wide. He loved reading, playing pool, his various vehicles, his home, travel, and above all, people -- of all walks of life or social standing. Each life is a story-song - the words of which remain long after the body is gone, in the collective memories of friends and family. But the melody lingers into eternity - blending gradually into the symphony of celestial spheres heard softly on starry nights in the early morning stillness. And for those who knew and loved him John's music will play ever so sweetly on our heartstrings -- always. According to his wishes, he was cremated and a private home memorial service was held his honor.
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