Jose Eugenio Cordova passed away Monday, Oct. 9, at St. Anthony’s Hospital in Denver. He was 85 years old.
A rosary was recited at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church on Oct. 13 and a Mass of Christian Burial was held Saturday, Oct. 14, also at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church. Burial followed the Mass at Hilltop Cemetery.
Jose was born Oct. 13, 1941, to Mariano M. and Francisquita G. (Gomez) Cordova in Dulce, N.M. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II from 1950-1953; he was an expert M1 carbine marksman. On Aug. 3,1953, he married the love of his life, Faye, in Winchester, Va. They started their life together in his hometown, Pagosa Springs, Colo., where they raised their nine children.
First and foremost, he was a rancher, and had various jobs throughout the years, such as Hersch’s Department store, a local hardware store, and business owner of Pine Grove Inn. He was a carpenter and plumber’s assistant. Joe ended his career in hotel maintenance. He then retired and spent the remainder of his life doing what he loved: being outside on his swing with his wife, family and friends.
Enjoying family was a big part of his life. He and Faye enjoyed going to the casino with their friends. Joe loved dancing, music, family BBQs, being outdoors and spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren and sitting outside on the swing with his wife.
He is survived by his wife, Faye Cordova; and seven of his children: Sharon (Joe) Quintana, Jane (John) Snarr, Frances (Gilbert) Martinez, Theresa (Manuel) Trujillo, Rita (David) Prokop, Joey (Renee) Cordova and Anthony (Becki) Cordova; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren; and his sisters, Henrietta Todaro and Juanita (Benny) Quintana.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Mariano and Fransisquita Cordova; his brother, Orlando Cordova; his two sons, Robert and Michael; and his granddaughter, Joela.
In lieu of flowers, you may contribute to the Muscular Dystrophy Foundation in honor of their beloved son, Michael Cordova.

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Carolyn Hansen, 97, of Willow Valley in Willow Street, Pa., died peacefully on Sunday, Oct. 15, surrounded by her family.
Carolyn was born on Feb. 28, 1920, in Minneapolis, Minn., to the late Orrin E. and Robina Leask Dunkerton. She worked briefly as a dental hygienist prior to marrying Irving Hansen. She traveled extensively across the U.S., due to Irving’s work with Research Cottrell installing pollution control equipment at power plants. Despite the transient nature of her life, she created a nurturing environment for her children wherever they moved and made numerous friends along the way. Carolyn and Irving retired to Pagosa Springs. Following Irving’s passing, Carolyn moved to Willow Street, Pa.
She was a devoted wife and mother, a woman of joyful faith and warm hospitality. She enjoyed vigorous walks, games of Scrabble and good books. Above all, Carolyn’s life was defined by her steadfast faith in Jesus Christ.
Carolyn was preceded in death by her husband, Irving (1916-94); by her daughter, Gail (1943-2000); by two brothers, Mark and Ned; and two sisters, June and Joanne.
She is survived by two sons: William Hansen, husband of Juliana; Jarabacoa, Dominican Republic; and Larry Hansen, New Mexico; a brother, Thomas Dunkerton, Charlottesville, Va.; and a sister, Gwen Pinkham, Willow Street, Pa. She is also survived by four grandchildren: Jonathan Hjembo, husband of Alison; Karl Hjembo, husband of Alyssa; Carolina, wife of J.R. Hart; Sally, wife of Paul Minnick, and nine great-grandchildren.

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June 9, 1965 — Sept. 19, 2017
LiAnne Marie Leaveck, 52, of Pagosa Springs, was welcomed into the Kingdom of Heaven on Sept. 19, joining her mother, Jeannine; sisters Michelle and Laurinne; brother Timothy; and uncle Donald Croarkin.
LiAnne was born on June 9, 1965, to Lawrence and Jeannine (Croarkin) Leaveck in Colorado Springs, Colo. She graduated from Cheyenne Mountain High School in 1983 and earned her cosmetology degree shortly after. She worked for Western Horseman Magazine in Colorado Springs as a typesetter before moving to Pagosa Springs in 1999.
She cared deeply for those around her, most especially her cats, her family and her community in Pagosa Springs. She had a bubbly and kind personality and was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. Her passions included scrapbooking, writing, cooking, salsa dancing, helping the elderly and all things purple. LiAnne will live on in the kindness she showed, the comfort she shared and the love she brought into our lives.
She is survived by her father, Lawrence (Diane) Leaveck; brother Sean (Felis Brown) Leaveck; sister Suzanne (Joe) Trujillo; brother-in-law Michael Kinney; sister-in-law Debra Leaveck; nephews Josh (Tayler) Kinney, Branden and Andrew Trujillo, and Elijah Leaveck; nieces Michelle (Corey) Koca, Amanda and Emily Leaveck, Megan (David) Bates and Camille Leaveck; and great-nephews Cray and Nash Koca.
A celebration of life will be held for friends and family on Nov. 10 at Pagosa Lakes Vista Clubhouse, 230 Port Ave., in Pagosa Springs, from 6-7 p.m.

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Larry Phillip McCormick was born in Pensacola, Fla., to Robert and Margaret McCormick on Nov. 14, 1945.
Larry proudly served his country for 12 years in the Army National Guard and retired from Qwest after 30 years of service. After “retiring,” Larry owned and operated Bearfoot Garage Doors for 17 years in Pagosa Springs, Colo., where he was known as “Mr. Bearfoot.” Larry was a longtime resident of Pagosa and, in his heart, Pagosa was always his home.
Larry served his community with his wife, Cindy, for many years as Salvation Army bell ringers. They also served the Pagosa Springs Pregnancy Crisis Center in fundraising efforts and they were involved in many ministries with their church, including Vacation Bible School and the food ministry. Larry loved all outdoor hobbies, including hunting and fishing, winter sports and most especially camping with his family. Larry was an avid builder and took pride in building five homes for his family.
Jesus came for Larry the morning of Oct. 18. Next to his love for God and Jesus, Larry was deeply devoted to his wife, children and grandchildren. He is survived by his wife, Cindy, of 36 1/2 years; son Joseph McCormick (Terri); daughters Breezy Beckler (Paul) and Mandy Kelley (Justin); and grandchildren Serina, Ben, Emmie, Gabe and Jack.
A celebration of his life will be held Saturday, Nov. 11, at 10 a.m., at Centerpoint Church, 2750 Cornerstone Dr., Pagosa Springs, Colo. In lieu of flowers, donations to help cover funeral costs can be made to Cindy McCormick and sent to Calvary Castle Rock Church, Attn: Cindy McCormick, 1100 Caprice Dr., Castle Rock, CO 80109.

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Larry Phillip McCormick was born in Pensacola, Fla., to Robert and Margaret McCormick on Nov. 14, 1945.
Larry proudly served his country for 12 years in the Army National Guard and retired from Qwest after 30 years of service. After “retiring,” Larry owned and operated Bearfoot Garage Doors for 17 years in Pagosa Springs, Colo., where he was known as “Mr. Bearfoot.” Larry was a longtime resident of Pagosa and, in his heart, Pagosa was always his home.
Larry served his community with his wife, Cindy, for many years as Salvation Army bell ringers. They also served the Pagosa Springs Pregnancy Crisis Center in fundraising efforts and they were involved in many ministries with their church, including Vacation Bible School and the food ministry. Larry loved all outdoor hobbies, including hunting and fishing, winter sports, and most especially, camping with his family. Larry was an avid builder and took pride in building five homes for his family.
Jesus came for Larry the morning of Oct. 18. Next to his love for God and Jesus, Larry was deeply devoted to his wife, children and grandchildren. He is survived by his wife, Cindy, of 36 1/2 years; son Joseph McCormick (Terri); daughters Breezy Beckler (Paul) and Mandy Kelley (Justin); and grandchildren Serina, Ben, Emmie, Gabe and Jack.
A celebration of his life will be held Nov. 11 at 10 a.m., at Centerpoint Church, 2750 Cornerstone Drive, Pagosa Springs. In lieu of flowers, donations to help cover funeral costs can be made to Cindy McCormick and sent to Calvary Castle Rock Church, Attn: Cindy McCormick, 1100 Caprice Drive, Castle Rock, CO 80109.

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June 9, 1965 — Sept. 19, 2017
LiAnne Marie Leaveck, 52, of Pagosa Springs, was welcomed into the Kingdom of Heaven on Sept. 19, joining her mother, Jeannine; sisters Michelle and Laurinne; brother Timothy; and uncle Donald Croarkin.
LiAnne was born on June 9, 1965, to Lawrence and Jeannine (Croarkin) Leaveck in Colorado Springs, Colo. She graduated from Cheyenne Mountain High School in 1983 and earned her cosmetology degree shortly after. She worked for Western Horseman Magazine in Colorado Springs as a typesetter before moving to Pagosa Springs in 1999.
She cared deeply for those around her, most especially her cats, her family and her community in Pagosa Springs. She had a bubbly and kind personality and was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. Her passions included scrapbooking, writing, cooking, salsa dancing, helping the elderly and all things purple. LiAnne will live on in the kindness she showed, the comfort she shared and the love she brought into our lives.
She is survived by her father, Lawrence (Diane) Leaveck; brother Sean (Felis Brown) Leaveck; sister Suzanne (Joe) Trujillo; brother-in-law Michael Kinney; sister-in-law Debra Leaveck; nephews Josh (Tayler) Kinney, Branden and Andrew Trujillo, and Elijah Leaveck; nieces Michelle (Corey) Koca, Amanda and Emily Leaveck, Megan (David) Bates and Camille Leaveck; and great-nephews Cray and Nash Koca.
A celebration of life will be held for friends and family on Nov. 10 at Pagosa Lakes Vista Clubhouse, 230 Port Ave., in Pagosa Springs, from 6-7 p.m.

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Larry Phillip McCormick was born in Pensacola, Fla., to Robert and Margaret McCormick on Nov. 14, 1945.
Larry proudly served his country for 12 years in the Army National Guard and retired from Qwest after 30 years of service. After “retiring,” Larry owned and operated Bearfoot Garage Doors for 17 years in Pagosa Springs, Colo., where he was known as “Mr. Bearfoot.” Larry was a longtime resident of Pagosa and, in his heart, Pagosa was always his home.
Larry served his community with his wife, Cindy, for many years as Salvation Army bell ringers. They also served the Pagosa Springs Pregnancy Crisis Center in fundraising efforts and they were involved in many ministries with their church, including Vacation Bible School and the food ministry. Larry loved all outdoor hobbies, including hunting and fishing, winter sports and most especially camping with his family. Larry was an avid builder and took pride in building five homes for his family.
Jesus came for Larry the morning of Oct. 18. Next to his love for God and Jesus, Larry was deeply devoted to his wife, children and grandchildren. He is survived by his wife, Cindy, of 36 1/2 years; son Joseph McCormick (Terri); daughters Breezy Beckler (Paul) and Mandy Kelley (Justin); and grandchildren Serina, Ben, Emmie, Gabe and Jack.
A celebration of his life will be held Saturday, Nov. 11, at 10 a.m., at Centerpoint Church, 2750 Cornerstone Dr., Pagosa Springs, Colo. In lieu of flowers, donations to help cover funeral costs can be made to Cindy McCormick and sent to Calvary Castle Rock Church, Attn: Cindy McCormick, 1100 Caprice Dr., Castle Rock, CO 80109.

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A huge thank you from all the veterans of Archuleta County for another epic breakfast put on by Pagosa Springs eighth-graders.

The full version of this story is available in the print edition and e-edition of the Pagosa Springs SUN. Subscribe today by calling (970)264-2100 or click here.

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Michael “Mike” Duane Tennyson, age 65, of Pottsboro, Texas, and Pagosa Springs, Colo., passed away on Nov. 4. He was born April 16, 1952, to Billy Duane and Margaret (Scott) Tennyson in Dayton, Ohio.
Mike graduated in 1974 from Southeastern Louisiana University in Hammond, La., with a bachelor’s degree. In 1984, he married Evelyn Breaux in New Orleans, La., where Mike worked for Hibernia National Bank for over 20 years. They moved to Dallas, Texas, in 1994, where Mike was a co-owner of Preferred Care Partners Management Group.
He loved spending time at his home in Pagosa Springs, riding ATVs in the mountains with visiting friends, but mostly he loved spending time with his wife, Evelyn, and their two dogs, Austin and Chayse.
A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m., Friday, Nov. 17, at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Home, 2525 Central Expressway N., Allen, Texas 75013. An additional memorial service will be held in Pagosa Springs this summer. The date has not yet been set.
In lieu of flowers, a donation to one of Mike’s favorite charities is requested: LASSO Horse Rescue, P.O. Box 229, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147, or online through PayPal: lassohorserescue.org; Humane Society of Pagosa Springs, P. O. Box 2230, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147, or online: humanesocietyofpagosasprings.org; Pagosa Springs Medical Center, The Dr. Mary Fisher Foundation, online: pagosaspringsmedicalcenter.org (select The Foundation from the drop-down menu); Pagosa Springs Arts Council, P.O. Box 3756, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147, website not up yet.

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Nancy R. Powell, age 67, of Pagosa Springs, passed away Nov. 8 after a long and brave battle with cancer.
Born in San Diego, Calif., Jan. 16, 1950, Nancy graduated from Fontana High School and went on to earn her bachelor’s degree in nursing and her master’s degree in organizational management. She opened up a successful home health care agency in 2003 and retired in 2012 after selflessly serving her community as a nurse for 44 years.
Nancy retired to Pagosa Springs to enjoy the lifestyle, climate and landscape that she always held so dear to her heart. She was an avid horsewoman and hunter, embracing the beautiful nature that she chose to surround herself with in her final years of life. Nancy was a devoted wife, loving mother, nurturing grandmother and caretaker of countless souls.
Nancy is survived by her husband of 32 years, Scott Powell; her son, Thomas Oliver, and his wife, Dawnell; her daughter, Jamie Cooper, and her husband, Casey; four grandchildren: Jordan, Allie, Dean and Jack; her extended family and countless friends; her stepdaughter, Summer, and family; and her beloved horse and “trail soulmate,” Rocky.
Nancy loved and helped so many and will be deeply missed by those who had the honor of meeting her.

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In loving memory of Darin Rome, July 3, 1965, to Nov. 13, 2011.
Hard to believe it has been six years. We miss you so very much. Darin was an amazing husband, father, son, friend and neighbor. We miss your songwriting, your music, your humor, your compassion, your frankness and joy of the simple things. We miss you every day and know you are making music on the other side.
Your loving family:
Laura, Damian and Deanna

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Jose Eugenio Cordova passed away Monday, Oct. 9, at St. Anthony’s Hospital in Denver. He was 85 years old.
A rosary was recited at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church on Oct. 13 and a Mass of Christian Burial was held Saturday, Oct. 14, also at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church. Burial followed the Mass at Hilltop Cemetery.
Jose was born Oct. 13, 1941, to Mariano M. and Francisquita G. (Gomez) Cordova in Dulce, N.M. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II from 1950-1953; he was an expert M1 carbine marksman. On Aug. 3,1953, he married the love of his life, Faye, in Winchester, Va. They started their life together in his hometown, Pagosa Springs, Colo., where they raised their nine children.
First and foremost, he was a rancher, and had various jobs throughout the years, such as Hersch’s Department store, a local hardware store, and business owner of Pine Grove Inn. He was a carpenter and plumber’s assistant. Joe ended his career in hotel maintenance. He then retired and spent the remainder of his life doing what he loved: being outside on his swing with his wife, family and friends.
Enjoying family was a big part of his life. He and Faye enjoyed going to the casino with their friends. Joe loved dancing, music, family BBQs, being outdoors and spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren and sitting outside on the swing with his wife.
He is survived by his wife, Faye Cordova; and seven of his children: Sharon (Joe) Quintana, Jane (John) Snarr, Frances (Gilbert) Martinez, Theresa (Manuel) Trujillo, Rita (David) Prokop, Joey (Renee) Cordova and Anthony (Becki) Cordova; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren; and his sisters, Henrietta Todaro and Juanita (Benny) Quintana.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Mariano and Fransisquita Cordova; his brother, Orlando Cordova; his two sons, Robert and Michael; and his granddaughter, Joela.
In lieu of flowers, you may contribute to the Muscular Dystrophy Foundation in honor of their beloved son, Michael Cordova.

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May 30, 1936-Nov. 20, 2017
Throughout his life, Dick Babillis was a complex man. Born a Gemini, it was his birthright to live his life shy of “typical.”
Gifted with a brilliant mind, he graduated from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute at age 20, started out in life as a space engineer, where he had the opportunity to serve as a project manager on the Voyager 1 project.
In his last years of life, Dick passionately provided volunteer technical support for Fernando Flores’ Linguistic Theory and Ontological Design online courses.
Dick struggled with alcoholism during his early adulthood, a disease that cost him dearly. But at age 34 he joined Alcoholics Anonymous and remained sober until his passing, 47 years later. He kept the AA chip in his pocket always in the event he came across another soul struggling with the disease who needed encouragement. He regarded his sobriety as one of his great accomplishments.
In his younger years, Dick was not an easy man by any means. He held very high, demanding standards for himself and his four children. He had very strong opinions about almost everything and, with his razor-sharp mind, drew conclusions far more quickly than those around him. At times, he could be very impatient as he waited for us to catch up. Not one to give or receive flattery easily, when he paid a compliment, the recipient knew beyond doubt that it was sincere. He was by nature a problem solver and was open to the most unconventional methods for resolving situations.
Although he left behind a legacy of significant accomplishments, it was his mindful, meaningful approach to his own life that directly impacted and improved the lives of many.
He loved his family with absolute love, and dedicated his life to clarifying his conversations and communication with those he loved.
After retirement to Pagosa Springs, he devoted himself to the local community and, over the years, mellowed out his rough edges.
He was a dedicated member of Pagosa Springs Rotary Club and advocated for the Paul Harris Fellow program, supporting families and changing lives locally and globally.
He was instrumental in the advancements made in local health care through Upper San Juan Health Service District, Dr. Mary Fisher Medical Foundation and the Pagosa Springs Medical Center.
Dick was the embodiment of community service and Rotary’s motto of “Service Above Self.” He was passionate in his local volunteer work and made many significant contributions to several community organizations including Relay for Life, United Way, Salvation Army bell ringing, working as a court mediator and other charitable causes.
You could often find him cheerfully serving beer at local events and festivals. Participating in the fun and festivities at hot air balloon rallies brought Dick immense joy.
Believing strongly in education, Dick volunteered for the Archuleta County Education Center. He taught college courses and continuing education classes and invited students into his home to tutor them when they needed extra help.
His friends knew Dick as a one-of-a-kind, positive, happy, inspirational and giving man who connected with people in a deep, unique and caring way with a twinkle in his sparkling blue eyes and a smile on his warm, loving face. You could always count on Dick to be there, to willingly take a role or assignment, to finish what he said he would and to communicate effectively to the group. He was always willing to take on challenging projects and was a great collaborator.
His favorite quote and inspiration for living was this one by George Bernard Shaw: “… I want to be thoroughly used up when I die, for the harder I work, the more I live. I rejoice in life for its own sake. Life is no ‘brief candle’ to me. It is a sort of splendid torch which I have got hold of for a moment, and I want to make it burn as brightly as possible before handing it on to future generations.”
Dick left behind his vibrant wife and compatriot, Bonnie Masters, and three of his children: Richard, Ann Marie and Stephen Babillis; and seven grandchildren: Jason Warner, John Tlush, Ally Babillis, Alex Babillis, Willi Babillis, Lauren Babillis and Sigourney Young.
In his next great adventure, Dick will be joining his former wife, Julia Young (deceased 2010), his son Paul Alexander Babillis (deceased 1994) and his brother, Robert Babillis (deceased 2012).

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May 21, 1935-Dec. 3, 2014
My dear Cindy, people are still talking to me about how much you are missed in our beautiful town of Pagosa Springs. You were an inspiration to all those you met, both young and old. This year, I was able to visit all eight of our children from North Carolina, Texas, Springfield, Mo., greater Kansas City area and California.
Your WHIPS, Women Helping in Pagosa Springs, is still going strong.
Love, Ron

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Douglas James Ingram, age 60, died at home on Thursday, Nov. 23. He was born Sept. 13, 1957, in California. He lived in Texas and Arizona before settling in Pagosa Springs.
Doug was known for his great sense of humor. He served as a volunteer for Meals on Wheels at the Senior Center. He is survived by his wife, Suzanne, of 42 years, and children Donald, Nicholas and Rachel.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at 2 p.m. on Dec. 11 at the Church of Christ located at 277 Lewis St.

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Douglas James Ingram, age 60, died at home on Thursday, Nov. 23. He was born Sept. 13, 1957, in California. He lived in Texas and Arizona before settling in Pagosa Springs.
Doug was known for his great sense of humor. He served as a volunteer for Meals on Wheels at the Senior Center. He is survived by his wife, Suzanne, of 42 years, and children Donald, Nicholas and Rachel.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at 2 p.m. on Dec. 11 at the Church of Christ located at 277 Lewis St.

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The passing of a legend in his own time has been reported. Ralph “Plumber” Harold Davis, 79, passed away at his home in Arboles on Nov. 18. Ralph bravely faced his impending death from an inoperable brain hemorrhage, only nine days after the “acute subdural hematoma, non traumatic” was diagnosed.
Ralph was the son of Harold M. and Frances Eva Davis, born in a cabin at the Hot Springs in Pagosa Springs on March 28, 1938, where he was a lifetime resident, grew up and attended school. He is survived by his beloved partner, Carol Tindell; sister Noreen Bruns, of Oklahoma City; nieces Coleen Henisa, of Oklahoma City, and Eileen Bruns, of Richmond, Texas; and nephew James Bruns, also of Oklahoma City. He will be missed by cousins Helen Moore and Craig, of Buena Vista, and all who knew and loved him; he never met a stranger.
He was a master of recycle, re-purpose and reuse of items and passing them on where they could be most beneficial. Many children were on the receiving end of bikes and other toys that he made or repaired and donated. He made wonderful wooden whirligigs as well as toys which can be found worldwide.
Ralph proudly served in the Army, serving in France as well as in the U.S. and still has friends from that period of time. Among other jobs in the area, he worked long and hard at the big sawmill north of Pagosa Springs, was a volunteer fireman and became chief — a job he really loved. He owned his own business for many years before retiring and moving to Arboles, where he continued his own business. He loved fishing and was a guide to hunters from out of state. He enjoyed gardening and beating the critters to harvest. Ralph had a tremendous heart and love for life. He loved having fun and had a sense of humor even to the end.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Pagosa Springs volunteer fire department in his name.

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John Thomas Blackwell passed away on Saturday, December 2, 2017, in Midland. John was 86, born on October 14, 1931, in Brady, Texas to Thomas Henry Blackwell and Davie (Dial) Blackwell.
John was preceded in death by his parents and brother Don Blackwell. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Mary Ann (Wilson) Blackwell; daughter Joan Everett and husband Phillip; grandsons Dustin Everett and wife Melissa, James Everett and Stephen Everett; daughter Marcia Mares and husband John; granddaughters Jennifer Jackson and husband Larry, Kelly Epps and husband Steve; grandson David Mares; daughter Lori Miller and husband Russell; granddaughters Leslie West and husband Quentin, and Mary Miller; grandsons Zachary Miller and Clay Miller; son John Thomas Blackwell Jr. and wife Kamilah; grandsons Joshua Blackwell and Andrew Blackwell and six great grandchildren.
John arrived in Midland in 1951. His first job was at Texas Electric in accounting. John then enlisted in the Army, attended officer’s training, earned the rank of First Lieutenant and served until 1953. He married Mary Wilson in 1954 and attended the University of Texas at Austin where he earned a B.A. in Business and Finance. John’s career lead him to the First National Bank of Midland. Later, he joined Rauscher Pierce as an investment broker where he worked for 38 years before retiring.
John was a dedicated family man. His life revolved around his wife and four children. John loved fishing and was a world class hunter with two Big Horn Sheep Grand Slams. He respected the environment and taught his children and grandchildren about responsible hunting. John enjoyed life and it showed. He will be greatly missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him.
Memorial services will be at 3:00 pm, Friday, December 8, 2017, at the First Baptist Church Chapel with Rev. David Johnson officiating. Family visitation will be from 6:00 pm until 7:30 pm, Thursday, December 7, 2017, at Nalley-Pickle and Welch Funeral Home and Crematory. Honorary pallbearers include Dustin Everett, James Everett, Stephen Everett, Zachary Miller, Clay Miller, David Mares, Joshua Blackwell, Andrew Blackwell, Larry Jackson and Steve Epps.
John’s family would like to express deep gratitude to long time helper Mary Lee and to friend and caregiver Manny Villareal who brightened so many days for John and Mary and to caregivers Lupe Martinez and Hilda Serrata for their kindness and dedication to John. The family extends sincere thanks to Brookdale Senior Living and their wonderful staff. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to your favorite charity in honor of John.
Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle and Welch Funeral Home and Crematory of Midland. Online condolences may be made at www.npwelch.com.

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Rafael “Ralph” T. Garcia (85) passed away peacefully at his home in Pagosa Springs, Colo., on Dec. 6, 2017, after a hard-fought battle with heart disease.
Rafael T. Garcia was born on Oct. 24, 1932, to Preciliano and Cleofas Garcia in Edith, Colo. He enjoyed his childhood years living and working at his favorite place — his family’s Montezuma ranch — and in Lumberton, N.M., where his family owned Garcia’s Cash Store. As a U.S. Army corporal during the Korean War, Ralph was awarded the National Defense Service Medal. As a small business owner, he ran various businesses including: Garcia Dry Goods, Mercure’s Bar and Dance Hall, R and R Grocery, and Ralph’s Gift Shop. In 1959, he was the youngest person to be elected New Mexico state representative of Rio Arriba County. In 1971, Ralph was elected New Mexico Rio Arriba County commissioner. Ralph was well-known, admired and respected for his integrity and honesty during his tenures in office.
In Pagosa Springs, Ralph was an appraiser and clerk for Archuleta County until retirement. Ralph enjoyed woodworking and made works of art that hang proudly in his family’s and friends’ homes today. He was a voracious reader and worker of crossword and word search puzzles and had a great love of history. Ralph had a brilliant mind — many said he had “a calculator for a brain.”
A steadfast patriarch with a deep faith in God, Ralph handled every situation with kindness and gentleness. Without doubt, it was Ralph’s great faith that enabled him to dedicate his life to caring for his family. Always his main priority, his loved ones feel immensely fortunate and grateful to have had him in their lives. Loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and wonderful example to all those around him, Ralph is greatly missed already, and always will be.
Dad, may you rest comfortably and peacefully in God’s arms in heaven. One day, we will all be home together again. We love you with all of our hearts!
Ralph is survived by: wife and primary loving caretaker of 56 years Teodora Garcia; three daughters: Darice and Jerry Vigil, Virginia “Gina” Lucero and Clifford Lucero, Marlena Crandall and Ron Christensen; grandchildren: Jerry Jr. and Brunella Vigil (Emilio), Brandon and Alma Vigil (Gabriel), Shaun Vigil and Kimberlee Hurley, Dominique Lucero and Tasha Andrews (Diandra, Nadia), Tricia and Michael Vega (Aidan, Liana, Lillyan, Asher), Zachary and Liz Lucero, Kain Lucero, Anissa Lucero, Jacob Crandall; son-in-law Ron Crandall; siblings: Preciliano Garcia, Lucila Props, Loyola Palmer, Amos Garcia; sister-in-law Elma Garcia; brother-in-law Gilbert Lucero; and, many cousins, nieces and nephews.
Rafael was preceded in death by: son Mauro Garcia; daughter Markita Garcia; parents Preciliano and Cleofas Garcia; siblings Jose Ignacio Garcia, Mary Lucero and three infant siblings.
Rosary took place on Dec. 11 at Pope John Paul II Catholic Church, Pagosa Springs, Colo. Funeral Mass took place on Dec. 12 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, Pagosa Springs, Colo.
Interment to follow at a later date at Lumberton Cemetery, Lumberton, N.M.

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Lois Caulk Keenan passed away Dec. 30, 2017, at the age of 91 at the Good Samaritan Society Nursing Home in Idaho Falls, Idaho.
She was born June 29, 1926, to Harold Garland Caulk and Bessie McCrary in Chromo, Colo. She was welcomed by an older sister, Wyona. The family moved to Arboles, Colo., in the fall of 1926 and lived there for three years. In 1928, her sister Wyona died, a loneliness she felt for the rest of her life. In 1929, her dad bought a ranch in Chromo. They moved there and made this the family home until Garland’s death in 1975.
Lois attended first through eighth grade in a one-room schoolhouse in Chromo. She traveled to and from school on her trusty horse, Old Dan. When it came time to go to high school, she boarded with people in Pagosa Springs: the Lloyd Anderson family, the Hatcher family and her aunt Ada Davis. She made friends with Thelma Keenan and moved in with her family to finish high school. It was at the Keenan family home where she met her future husband, Victor. Lois graduated from Pagosa Springs High School on May 26, 1945.
Victor and Lois were married on June 15, 1945, at her parents’ home in Chromo. Their first home was in Rifle, Colo. They didn’t stay for long and moved back to the ranch in Chromo. In the spring of 1946, Victor went to work for the Fish and Wildlife Service trapping coyotes and bobcats. That winter, they lived in a little cabin about 9 feet by 12 feet south of Ignacio, Colo., at La Boca.
In the spring, they moved to Bayfield and rented a cabin with two rooms. John arrived Aug. 17, 1947, at Mercy Hospital in Durango, Colo. That summer, they bought one acre of land at Gem Village to build a house, but sold it and moved back to Chromo to farm. Hazel was born Sept. 9, 1949, at Mercy Hospital in Durango.
While living at the ranch, Victor and Lois’ dad, Garland, bought a sawmill. They cut trees from the ranch to make lumber to build homes for her parents and themselves. Victor drew the plans for the houses and for all the buildings at the ranch.
After six years, they left and Victor went back to work for the Fish and Wildlife Service. They moved to Trinidad, then to Craig, Colo. They lived there for four and one-half years. Mary Louise was born in Craig on Nov. 25, 1956. Victor took a civil service test and was able to get a promotion to a district supervisor. They moved to Denver for two years; then to Monte Vista for 18 years; Vernal, Utah, for two years; and then back to Monte Vista for two years.
After Victor retired in 1980, they moved back to the ranch in Chromo. Lois stayed at the ranch until Victor’s death in 1993. In 1994, she moved to Olathe, Colo., to be by Mary. In 2006, she moved to Shelley, Idaho, to be near Hazel and her family. She was able to live in her home with help from her granddaughter, Michelle, and others until five months before she died.
Lois worked for many years at J.C. Penney. She was a wonderful homemaker and loved to cook, sew, garden and care for her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her family never wanted for anything. Lois was active in her church wherever she lived. She was a devout Christian. Jesus was the focus of her faith in all situations of her life. Her latest church home was the Shelley Methodist Community Church in Shelley, Idaho.
Lois is preceded in death by her parents, H.G and Bessie Caulk; her husband, Victor; and her sister, Wyona. She is survived by her children, John and Gloria Keenan (Farmington, N.M.), Hazel and George Meshrow (Idaho Falls, Idaho), and Mary and Bryan Gomez (Gresham, Ore.); her sister-cousin, Kay Randall (Dallas, Texas); grandchildren Michelle and Brett Waters, Katie Bradley, Kelli Keenan, Amber and Matt Roberts, Megan and Andrew Lieberenz, and Randel Gomez; great-grandchildren Brady, Bryce and Carson Waters, Eli, Tyler, and Devon Roberts, Jade and Ava Lieberenz, Lucas and Lily Ambrogi, and Bailee Neal.
Lois had many friends and extended family members. She will be missed by all, but we can rest in the assurance that she is finally home with her Lord Jesus. Services will be Saturday, Jan. 6, at the Shelley Methodist Community Church in Shelley, Idaho. Interment will be at the Hilltop Cemetery in Pagosa Springs, in the spring.

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