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ANAYA -- Francisco M. (Pancho) Anaya, 50, of Albuquerque, died on Saturday March 24, 2007 at the University of New Mexico Hospital of complications from liver disease, while awaiting a liver transplant, with family members by his side. Pancho Anaya is the son of Lowrie Hurtado of Albuquerque and the late Joe Anaya of Douglas, AZ. He was born on December 23, 1956. Pancho is survived by his two children, Francis (Franci) Anaya and Alejandro (Alex) Anaya. He is also survived by his mother, Lowrie Hurtado of Albuquerque; and several siblings and their children: Jody Nagel of Brownsville, TX and her two sons, Preston and Pancho; Cass Anaya of Brookfield, CT and his two sons, Joseph and Nicholas; Mia Gutierrez Anaya of Albuquerque and her son, Chris Maes; Mike Percilick of Marcola, OR and his daughter, Natasha, and son, Talon. Pancho enjoyed his life and was very much a sports enthusiast. In addition to the passion he felt for his children, he had a love of basketball, baseball, golf, and all outdoor activities. As a graduate of Manzano High School in Albuquerque, he was a significant contributor and leader on two state-championship and three district championship basketball teams. His family, friends, teammates, and coaches will not forget the sight of a young, fearless, sophomore entering the game in the final minute of the 1973 finals against Albuquerque High. Manzano was down by two and with the seconds counting down, Pancho intercepted a pass between the wheels, streaked down the court, layed the ball softly off the glass and sent the game into overtime. As a result, Manzano High School won their first state championship that night, and repeated the following year. Pancho, also continued his basketball after high school and attended Eastern New Mexico University on a full basketball scholarship and received his degree in business. Utilizing his business and personable skills, Pancho pursued his professional career in sales in Albuquerque. For Pancho, this has always been a special time of year, and that night on the basketball floor of the Pit was much more than a game. It was the growth of a person who lived his life with passion, courage, and leadership, and touched and influenced so many people. We are all fortunate to have had Pancho be a special part of our lives and his legacy will carry forward. In lieu of flowers, arrangements are being made for a fund for Pancho's two children. Details will follow. A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, April 7, 2007, 11:00 a.m. at French Mortuary, Lomas Blvd. Chapel, 10500 Lomas Blvd. French Mortuary 10500 Lomas Blvd. NE 275-3500
        Published on: Sun April 01, 2007