Thomas "Derick" Velarde

Thomas “Derick” Velarde, a life-long resident of Velarde, New Mexico went to be with our lord and returned to his heavenly home on November 26, 2020 at the age of 58.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Dolores Velarde whom he loved and cherished; his grandparents Josie and Joe Martinez; Lorencita and Manual Velarde.

Derick is survived by his Father Tomas Velarde; his Daughter Sonia Chilton(John Chilton), Sonia’s mother, Margaret Gonzalez; his grandchildren, Damian, Jonathan and Yazmin Chilton; his sister, Debbie Martinez; his sister Danette Martinez (Brian Martinez); his sister Denise Ortiz (Dirck Ortiz). Nieces and Nephews Desiree’ Martinez (Chanel); Alyssa Davila (Jacoby and Joziah); Daynee’ Martinez; Brian Martinez; Maria Ortiz (Marcel) Cristobal Ortiz, Kane Baldonado, Adriano Oritz, Kaycie Velarde, Reagan Ortiz.  Special Friends, Dale Montoya, David Salazar, Jimmy Cambell, Jimmy Garcia, Brian and Christine Caudillo; And many, many other special Cousins, Aunts, Uncles and relatives.

Derick was born on November 23, 1962 to Dolores and Tomas Velarde.   Derick was loved and cherished by all that knew him.  He had a wonderful charismatic personality that would charm those he was around.  He was a very humble, gentle and caring man.  He had a big heart and would give you the shirt off his back if you needed it.  He would extend a helping hand to anyone in need.  He was also a problem-solver who often took on difficult and unwanted projects for those seeking remodeling services.  He is best known for his beautiful tile work that can be seen in many houses around northern New Mexico. Derick had a passion in buying and fixing up old cars especially classic Cadillac’s and Lincoln’s.  He loved to fish and camp and loved spending time outside.  He was a spiritual man, loved God and showed his faith by praying and wearing a rosary every day.  He will be deeply missed by his friends, family, and all who knew him.

A rosary will be recited on Sunday, December 6, 2020 at 4:00 p.m. at the Holy Cross Catholic Church in Santa Cruz. (Rosary will be on Zoom, the link is listed below) Mass of Christian burial to be celebrated on Monday, December 7, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. also at the Holy Cross Catholic Church. Burial to follow at the Holy Cross Cemetery. The family of Thomas “Derick” Velarde has entrusted their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the Española Valley. 505-747-7477 – www.devargasfuneral.com

https://zoom.us/j/93929274504?pwd=K3VPVGpjVG1vY01sTGExTEJKSTR1UT09

Meeting ID: 939 2927 4504

Passcode: Velarde