Miguel "Mike" A. - Ranchitos Gallegos

Miguel “Miké” A. Gallegos, a resident of Ranchitos passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones on Sunday, January 20, 2013. Miguel was born on November 4, 1921. Miguel was a World War II Veteran. Miguel was a Purple Heart recipient and he also received an EAME Ribbon, combat badge and 2 bronze battle stars. Miguel enjoyed telling everyone about his time in the service. Miguel was a member of the Knights of Columbus, DAV, and the American Legion. Miguel was also a member of the Rondalla Choir at San Juan Bautista Parish. Miguel taught himself to play the trumpet and at the age of 13, he started playing at weddings and other gatherings. Although he could not read the music sheets, he would be able to play a song after listening to it a few times. He will be remembered by his good nature, great sense of humor, and his love of music, especially spiritual music. Miguel was preceded in death by his parents, Francisco and Elizaida Gallegos; sisters: Labriana and Antoinina; first wife, Idalia; daughter, Diana. Miguel is survived by his wife Maria Elena Gallegos; sons: Miguel Gallegos and Juan Gallegos; children from his first wife: Naedin Gallegos, Rudy Gallegos (Rafaelita), Betty Andrade (Joel), Irene Rizo (Jose), Frances Mascarenas (Peter), Joann Trujillo, Tina Lopez; 19 grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren; 1 great great-grandchild; brother, Frank Gallegos (Jennie); sister, Martha Ortiz (Waldo); numerous other loving relatives & friends. Many special thanks to Father Brito, Father Javier, and Father Brennan for all of their kind word and prayers. Thanks to Española Ambercare for all their help, also to the members of Rondalla Choir for all their music, friendship and prayers. Public visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 23, 2013 at 6:30 p.m. in the Sangre de Cristo Chapel of DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory with a rosary to follow at 7:00 p.m. Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Thursday, January 24, 2013 at 12:00 p.m. at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Ohkay Owingeh with burial to take place at Santa Fe National Cemetery at 3:00 p.m. Serving the family as pallbearers will be: Miguel, Juan, Rudy and Anthony Gallegos, Fernando Andrade and Benjamin Lopez; honorary pallbearers: Miguel Angel Rizo and Michael Trujillo. The family of Miguel “Mike” A. Gallegos have entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the Española Valley.

---