Leroy John Betoni

Leroy John Betoni

Kirtland

Heaven has gained a wonderful man. Leroy John Betoni, 68, was born on November 17, 1951 in Ignacio, Colorado; the son of the late John W. Betoni Sr. and Ruby Ruth (Canuto) Betoni of Kimbeto, NM. Leroy entered Heaven on October 06, 2020 at San Juan Regional Medical Center Farmington, NM. He was born to the Tl'aashchi'l-Red Bottom Clan, and born for the Naakaii Dine'e-Mexican Clan. His maternal grandfathers are Tabaahi-Water's Edge Clan, and his paternal grandfathers are Bit'ahnii-Under His Cover Clan. Leroy graduated from Ignacio High School, Class of 1969. Following graduation Leroy left for Los Angeles, California where he studied automotive mechanics and auto body. Leroy shifted his career to become a law enforcement officer and graduated from the Navajo Nation Police Academy. His experience and credentials got him hired on at Utah International/BHP in Fruitland, NM in 1982 as a Security Officer. Leroy entered the mine's 4 year heavy equipment apprenticeship program and began to pursue another challenge to get licensed in heavy equipment mechanics. After he earned his degree, Leroy worked until his retirement in 2018. His 35 years at the mine was exceptional, he had perfect attendance for the first 32 years. Leroy was a loyal member of the Mine Rescue Team. He took pride in working as a certified EMT and volunteered his time to help people. He saved the lives of 3 small children, 2 of which were his very own and an infant. Leroy was also a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and volunteered his time doing missionary service and other callings.
In 1979, he married his love Marilyn Betoni. They had a traditional Navajo wedding and were later sealed in 1988 at the Salt Lake Temple for all time and eternity. They are happy parents of 9 beautiful children.
Leroy leaves behind his wife of 41 years and 8 children. Two sons: Joaquin (LaRae), of Farmington NM, Beau of Kirtland, NM. Six Daughters: Yelonda (Gil) of Albuquerque, NM, Marlo (Dan) of Bismarck, ND, Shawna (Joel) of Albuquerque, NM, Denise of Kirtland, NM, Marsha (Miles)of Los Lunas, NM, and Matauiu of Kirtland, NM. Leroy has been blessed with 13 beautiful grandchildren: Kiryn, Destiny, Kaleigh, Kaitlen, Kaira, Chapa, Chimaira, Caina, Emily, Peyton, Liam, Riley and Audrey.
Leroy has eight surviving siblings. Seven brothers: Vern, Juan II, Randall, John, David, Ronnie, and Byron. One sister: Leta and many nieces and nephews.
Leroy was preceded in death by his parents, John and Ruby Betoni, his oldest son Virgil, 3 brothers Bobby, Eugene and Mark.
Leroy's greatest love was his family. He worked hard and was devoted to his family, his faith, and his career. Leroy loved the life of the wild and the great outdoors of fishing, hunting, hiking, and camping. He was born in Colorado and that is where his heart lead him often. After his retirement Leroy was able to fulfill some of his dreams of escaping to the mountains and lakes; visiting his children and grandchildren. Leroy was a diehard fan of Denver Broncos, BYU, and the Arizona Diamondbacks. Football and hunting were the joys of his leisure. His all-time dream was to go Sasquatch hunting with his brothers. Leroy's famous phrase was, "Have a Fantastic day!" and meant it. His positive attitude was contagious and he truly made you feel important and special. He will be truly missed by all who knew him. May God Bless his journey home, Amen.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, October 10, 2020 @ 1:00 pm Kirtland-Fruitland Cemetery, Kirtland New Mexico. Please respect family wishes and wear a mask.
All donations can be made to Marilyn Betoni.