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Obituary for GALLEGOS


Published in the Albuquerque Journal on Wednesday December 28, 2005

Paciano Louis "PL" Gallegos August 25, 1923 - December 14, 2005 The Gallegos family wants to thank all the wonderful friends and family that supported us during the loss of our beloved Paciano Louis "PL" Gallegos - his wife, Lita; his children, Julia McKibbin, Olivia Kell, Michael Gallegos, Renee Romero, Randy Gallegos; his grandchildren, Maria McCallister, Bill McKibbin, Dana Kell-Bradshaw, Michael Christopher Gallegos, Michelle Gallegos, Matthew Gallegos, Fredrick Romero, Adam Romero, Angela Romero, Brian Gallegos; his great-grandchildren, Larry Dean Kell, Jamila Kell, Michael Elijah Gallegos; his daughters-in-law, Susan Gallegos, Cathi Gallegos; his son-in-law, Fred Romero; grandson-in-law, Tim McCallister; and special family members, David Romero, Garry Davidson, Sara Sandoval, and Melissa Garcia. Special thanks to his dear friends, Bob and Jenny Contreras, who provided spiritual support to him and his family during the last months of his illness; to Alice Martinez for her hard work; and to Sylvia McCoy for her support to the family during PL's illness. Your letters, cards, flowers, and most of all your love and support were deeply appreciated by all of us during this difficult time. PL was born in La Jara, NM near Cuba, NM on August 25, 1923, where he his parents, Epifanio and Marcellita, homesteaded in the early 1900s. He was one of ten children, and is survived by two sisters, Lena Gardea and Freida Haynie. Three brothers and four sisters preceded him in death, Baltazar, Alfonso, Daniel, Lela, Erma, Pauline, and Inez. He is survived by many nieces and nephews, whom loved their "Tio" very much. PL joined the Navy when he was 17, and served his country during WWII. He met his wife, Lita Chavez, while on leave from the military. They married when he returned home from the war, 61 years ago. PL worked for the Downtown Hilton Hotel during his early years, and then for the Indian Health Service. He was the manager of the Indian Health Service Hospital Facility, where he utilized his plumbing, heating, and mechanical skills and training. He retired from the federal government after 20 years of service. He enjoyed his retirement by participating in the Lions Club, where he was recognized for outstanding service and dedication to his community and awarded the Humanitarian Award. He was an active member of his church, Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, for over 50 years, where he donated many hours of his time to the church he loved so much. He was also a member of the church choir, where he sang the beautiful Spanish songs that he also loved to sing to his children and grandchildren. He will be remembered for his dedication to his family, community, and his church. He "quietly" helped others his entire life - always helping others through his church and community activities. His genuine spirituality touched everyone. We want to thank everyone who shared their stories of PL's generosity and giving spirit - that means so much to all of us. Interment will take place at the Veteran's National Cemetery in Santa Fe on December 30, 2005 at 2:30 p.m. Friends and family are asked to join us at this time. For more information you may contact Alameda Mortuary.