Miguel Valdez

Miguel Valdez, 91, of Farmington, passed away after a long illness on Monday, Feb. 9, 2015. He was born Aug. 31, 1923, in La Jara, to Ignacio Valdez and Melessa Sanchez.
In 1941, at the age of 18 he joined the Civilian Conservation Camp. When he came back he married Desideria Montoya. They Lived in LaJara, and had seven children. He is survived by his children Amelia Atencio, Edwina Valdez, Joe Valdez wife Joann, Bertha Sandoval, Mary Corrales, Yvonne Casaus and Robert Valdez wife Tina; 15 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren; nine great-great-grandchildren; two brothers, Elisao Valdez and Herman Valdez; two sisters, Rose husband Rufino Armenta and Liva Husband Dikie Archuleta; sister-in-law Elosia Gutierrez; many nieces, nephews and tons of friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Desideria; granddaughter Marcella Corrales-Martinez; two sisters, Pablita and Lenor; two brothers, Augustine and Floriano Valdez; and son-in-law Ernesto Corrales.
Miguel enjoyed camping, Spanish music, dancing, collecting and riding horses. He was a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and great-great-grandfather. He will be greatly missed. The family would like to thank the staff at Cedar Ridge.
A rosary will be recited at 10 a.m., Friday, Feb. 13, at Santo Nino Catholic Church in La Jara.
A funeral Mass will follow at 11 a.m. The final resting place will be in the La Jara Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Leroy Salaz, Sammy Salaz, Mike Atencio, David Atencio, Michael Valdez and Jose Casaus.
Honorary pallbearers are Legene Jaramillo, Joseph Salaz, Carlos Atencio and Isaac Trujillo.
Miguel's care is entrusted to Cope Memorial Chapel, 404 W. Arrington St. in Farmington, 505-327-5142. Those who wish to express their condolences may do so at www.serenityandcompany.com http://www.serenityandcompany.com.