Michael Valdez

Michael J. Valdez, 63, a resident of El Rito, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, August 18, 2019. Michael was proceeded in death by his wife of 44 years, Donna Valdez; his daughter, Michelle Faith Valdez; father, Jose Elfigo Valdez, mother, Ascencion Valdez, and niece Karen Camille Bustamante.

Michael was born in Murray, Utah on June 3, 1956 and was raised in El Rito. After the passing of his parents, he was raised by his grandparents Juan Antonio and Camila Ocana. It was in this small town that he met his wife, Donna Archuleta. Upon graduating high school, they were married and had 3 daughters. During this time he learned the trade of construction where he was inspired by building passive solar adobe homes, many of which you will see driving throughout Northern New Mexico.

In the words of his grandchildren, they describe their Grandpa Mike as a hardworking man that took every opportunity to teach them all he knew. He was also viewed as a prominent member of the community. Despite the tragedies throughout his lifetime, those closest to him knew the struggles that he faced and realize how much he really did try to move passed them. Michael is finally resting in peace. He is survived by his daughters Sarah and Martina Valdez, grandchildren Mateo, Damian, Tomas, Arianna, Ava, sister Lucille Valdez, and numerous nephews and nieces.

The family would like to thank the staff of DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the Espanola Valley. Public visitation will begin on Wednesday, August 21, 2019 at 6:00 p.m. in the Sangre de Cristo Chapel of DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory, with rosary to be recited at 6:30 p.m. Memorial mass will be celebrated on Thursday, August 22, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. at San Juan Nepomuceno Catholic Church in El Rito, with a burial to follow at the Old El Rito Cemetery. The family of Michael J. Valdez has entrusted the care of their loved one to the DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the Espanola Valley. 505-747-7477-www.devargsafuneral.com