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JIRON, JOE S. Joe's faith in God as his Savior, provider, comfort, and guide enabled him to live a life spanning over 91 years. Joe was called to his Lord on 31 December 2012. Born August 23, 1921 on the family homestead in Los Ranchos de La Cienega, near Arroyo Colorado, north of Mountainair, his family moved to Casa Colorada where he had the fondest memories of his youth. He enlisted for WWII and after 26 years in the military he made Albuquerque his home. He is survived by his son Frank Jiron and wife Diana of Annandale, Virginia; sister Betty Silva and husband Gilbert of Belen; brother-in-law Erich Oetzel and wife Helga of Frankfurt am Main, Germany; numerous nieces and nephews, and many wonderful friends. Joe was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 59 years, Lina "Heidi" Jiron; father Juan and mother Eufrasia Jiron; brothers Frank Giron, Paul Jiron; and sisters Socorra Jiron and Sostia Baca. Mr. Jiron's military career included service in the Army where he saw action in WWII in two Italian campaigns, served in occupied Germany and participated in the Berlin Airlift. After an assignment in Washington State he switched to the Air Force and was assigned at Kirtland, and in Alaska, Germany and Utah. His post service career included several positions in retail and a final position with the US Fish and Wildlife Service. Joe's hobbies included completing numerous home improvement projects and doing genealogical research. He was immensely proud to discover his New Mexico family history could be traced back to the late 1700's. But, his main passion was being a member of the Edelweiss am Rio Grande German American Club and dancing. He supported the club's numerous fund raising activities and served for years as member and Chairman of the Elferrat, a group that supports the club's Fashing activities. As a dancer, he and Heidi won numerous awards at Fashings, Oktoberfests, and Fiestas throughout the state. Friends may visit FRENCH - Lomas on Tuesday, January 8, 2012 beginning at 5:00 p.m. followed by a Rosary at 6:00 p.m. with Deacon Joe Santa, reciting. Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday, January 9, 2012 at 9:00 a.m. at the Shrine of St. Bernadette, 11401 Indian School Road NE with Fr. Leo Padget, Celebrant. Interment will take place at Santa Fe National Cemetery at 1:30 p.m. Please visit our online guest book for Joe at www.FrenchFunerals.com FRENCH 10500 Lomas Blvd NE 505-275-3500
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