Tony J. Age - 62 - Abiquiu Gallegos

Tony J. Gallegos passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 28, 2012 at home surrounded by his family and friends. Tony was born on May 4, 1950 to Don Gallegos and Mary Ann DeHerrera Gallegos in Española, New Mexico.\r\n \r\nHe was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Don Gallegos and Mary Ann DeHerrera Gallegos; his Padrino and Aunt Eusebio and Vicenta López and his “Nana” Rufina DeHerrera; half-brother, Benito Gallegos and many other beloved family members. \r\n \r\nHe was brought up at his ranch in Polvadera and Abiquiú New Mexico. He loved the outdoors, hunting and ranching. He loved taking care of the family cattle business and riding horses. He loved doing this until his horse riding accident in June, 1993,\r\nwhich left him paralyzed. He was determined to remain independent and not be taken to a nursing home. He was taught to operate his powered chair around the house, which he did with ease by the use of air with his mouth. He remained positive and was an inspiration to everyone that knew him. Throughout his many years of being a quadriplegic, he never complained and accepted his situation with patience and understanding. Thereby setting an enduring example to others. Throughout his illness he had many caregivers until he came in contact with Maurice Archuleta, who took care of Tony day and night until his passing on July 28, 2012. \r\n \r\nTony never forgot his beloved ranch, Polvadera, which to him was his inspiration and strength. He would visit his beloved ranch as often as possible and host many gatherings for family and friends there. His door was always open to anyone and he would make anyone feel wanted and appreciated.\r\n \r\nHe is survived by his caregiver, Maurice Archuleta; his very close first cousin, which he considered like a brother, Joe Eusebio López; his very close and dear friends, Lorenzo and Dolores Gonzales of Abiquiú and two nephews Benito and Issac Gallegos of Salt Lake City, Utah and many other beloved cousins, relatives and friends. Public visitation will begin on Monday, August 6, 2012 at 6:00 p.m. in the Sangre de Cristo Chapel with a rosary to be recited at 7:00 p.m. A second rosary will be recited on Tuesday, August 7, 2012 at 12:00 p.m. at the St. Thomas Catholic Church in Abiquiu with the Memorial mass to be recited at 1:00 p.m. Internment of his ashes will take place at a special spot by the grotto of the Blessed Virgin of Guadalupe in his property in Abiquiú immediately following the mass. The family of Tony J. Gallegos has entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the Española Valley.

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