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RAFAEL ABEYTA Dr. Rafael Abeyta Carrillo, 74, passed away on Wednesday, May 3, 2006. Rafael was born on March 3, 1932 to Andres and Ignacia Carrillo. He was born and raised in Abeytas, NM and was a long-time resident of Albuquerque, NM, until his retirement in 1991 when he returned to his childhood home in Abeytas. He was preceded in death by his parents, and brothers, Quirino Carrillo and Charles Ferris. He is survived by Loretta, his loving and devoted wife of 51 years; his children, Charlie and wife, Debbie, Andy, Tony and wife, Annette, Cathy, David and wife, Amanda; his sister, Eulalia Salazar; and his brother, Horacio; his loving grandchildren, Estrellita, Roan, Stephanie, Marquelyn, Dylan, Marissa, Anthony, and Sarah. He is also survived by his many loving nephews, nieces, numerous relatives, friends, and neighbors. Rafael was Roman Catholic and a member of Our Lady of Sorrows Parrish in La Joya, a founding member of St. Bernadette Parrish in Albuquerque, and he was a member of The Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem. Rafael was raised from very humble beginnings and knew the value of education. He received his Bachelor's Degree from St. Joseph College and his Master's and Ph.D. from the University of New Mexico. He was a long time educator having served as a classroom teacher and Elementary School Principal during a 31 year career with Albuquerque Public Schools. Upon retirement he returned to Abeytas to live the country life of a farmer and to live on the land he loved so dearly. He never stopped serving his community and was a board member of various public service boards. Rafael touched everyone he met with his humor and sincerity. Until the end, he kept the wit and charm that attracted so many people to him. He instilled the value of hard work and education into his children and countless others. He had many hobbies and interests including travel, farming, the violin, wine making, working with all of his farm tools, and inventing gadgets. He was a lifelong educator always seeking knowledge on a wide variety of topics. "Thank You" to all the family and friends that have visited, called, and prayed for him throughout his illness. He was very grateful for your support. "Thank You" to the healthcare workers who helped care for him. A special "Thank You" to Dr. Suzanne Barry for the personal care, love, and support. The kids especially thank our mother, Loretta, who defines the meaning of devoted wife. She stood by his side, and provided love, support, and good cooking through their marriage and personally cared for him through the final months of his life. He will be dearly missed by his family and friends. We love you, Dad. All Services will be held at San Antonio Catholic Church, Abeytas, NM, beginning with a viewing on Friday, May 5, 2006, at 6:00 p.m. followed by a Rosary to be recited at 6:30 p.m. A final visitation will be held on Saturday, May 6, 2006 from 10:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. with a Funeral Mass to be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Abeytas Catholic Cemetery. Pallbearers: Roan Carrillo, Dylan Carrillo, Anthony Carrillo, Gregory Carrillo, Jerry Ferris, and Carl Griego. Honorary pallbearers: Ray Paez, Paul Griego, Roy Rivera, Celso Armijo, Jack Bruton, and Mike Barela. Romero Funeral Home, 609 N. Main St., Belen. Visit online register at www.romerofuneralhomenm.com
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