Christopher Valdez

Christopher (Chris) Robert Valdez, 42, a lifelong resident of El Llano, New Mexico was called Home to the Lord on December 24, 2021.

Chris is survived by his daughter, the love of his life, Alexis Valdez, parents Archie and Annabelle Valdez from El Llano, Brother Vincent and Cristal Valdez from Chimayo, Twin sister Crystal and Nicolas Peña from Rio Rancho, Godsons Lucas and Leandro Peña, special nieces Faith Valdez and Lucia Peña, girlfriend Julie Gallegos, and the mother of his daughter Kathy Sandoval, aunts and uncles Ruth and Ismael Garcia, Minnie and Pancho Miera, Frankie and Lorenza Martinez, Myrna and Larry Romero, Eleanor Martinez, Rosie and John Marquez, Sandy and Howard Dixon, Angela and Albert Vigil, Sotero Valdez, Timmy Martinez, Michael Martinez and numerous relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his brothers Aaron and Gabriel; Maternal grandparents Eliseo and Martha Martinez; Paternal grandparents Felipe and Bernardita Valdez and Ernesto and Opal Olivas.

Chris loved life, was full of life, loved his family, his many friends and always made time for everyone. Chris lived out his Christian faith, by his many acts of kindness and willingness to help when anyone reached out to him. He loved hunting with his dad, brothers, and friends. He made lasting memories on his many vacations and outings. He was adventurous and nothing held him back from trying out something new. He brought joy to those around him wherever he went. He had many friends but made everyone feel like they were his Best Friend.

Chris was the baby of the family, but he was the protector of our family. His mom was his special angel and his strength. Chris was blessed with his beautiful daughter Alexis whom he loved and cherished with all his heart. Chris treasured the special times he shared with his brother Vince. They enjoyed cheering on their Raiders, going hunting, and reminiscing about Aaron and Gabriel.

Chris was currently employed at Los Alamos National Laboratory where he was an employee for 20 years and made many lasting friendships. He was a certified massage therapist, talented wood sculpture and gained his work ethic from his dad.

Chris will be greatly missed by his family, friends, and co-workers. We will remember his big smile, laughter, kind heart and tight bear hugs.

Chris is being joined on his new journey with his beloved cousin Marcos Garcia.

Serving as pallbearers are Matthew Gallegos, Joseph Sanchez, Andrew Sanchez, Enrique Valdez, Neal Herrera, Amor Leyba, Carlos Esquibel, David Maestas, Raymond Joseph, Everett Espinoza, Joe Gutierrez and Jeremy Vigil, Jr.

Rosary will be recited on Friday January 14, 2022, at 7pm in the Sangre De Cristo Chapel of DeVargas Funeral Home in Espanola. Mass of Christian burial will be on Saturday January 15, 2022, at 2pm at the Holy Cross Catholic Church in Santa Cruz, with burial to follow at the Santa Cruz Cemetery.

The family of Christopher Chris Robert Valdez has entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home of Taos.  www.devargastaos.com. 1-866-657-4019