Carl Thomas Halama

Carl Thomas Halama, age 41, died unexpectedly on Saturday, July 8, while on a hike near San Ysidro. The family is deeply saddened by his sudden death. 

Carl was born on August 5, 1981, to Steve and Pinky Halama in Seattle, Washington, with his family returning to the Land of Enchantment just a few short years later. He grew up with two older siblings Katy and Chris. In high school, Carl played defensive tackle for the Cibola Cougars football team, graduating in 2000. Carl discovered his artistic talents and went on to earn his bachelor’s degree in graphic arts from the University of Missouri-St. Louis. After a brief stop in Metarie, Louisiana, he returned to Albuquerque.

Carl's travels inspired a deep love for the sports teams he followed. The Blues and Cardinals from his time in St. Louis, the Saints from his sojourns in Louisiana, and his favorite football team from his high school years, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. Many a family gathering would feature animated discussions around team prospects for the year, punctuated by lamentations in difficult years and exultations in good ones.  

Carl found his stride in work with AUI, Inc. in South Albuquerque, where he started as a bookkeeper in the Accounting Department and recently was promoted to Assistant Controller. He truly enjoyed his work and the great people he worked with, especially Michelle and Christina.

Carl's relationship with Christ and his Calvary Chapel church family was an important part of his life, including leading a Connect group and volunteering in a host of additional capacities. He loved Jesus and wasn't shy in sharing that love and encouraging others to enter into a deeper relationship with the Lord.

Uncle Carl (or Uncle Ky-ull as he was known by the younger ones until they got old enough to pronounce his name correctly) was always willing to play with his nieces and nephew during family gatherings, a source of happy memories for all. 

Carl is survived by his parents, Steve and Lindalie "Pinky" Halama, his brother Chris Halama, sister-in-law Katie and their children Sutton and Cooper, and sister Katy Anderson, brother-in-law Charlie and their children Ellie, Claire, and Eva. Carl was preceded in death by his grandparents Norman and Jeanette Lein, Lars Halama, and Audrey Leitzow.

We know he is with the Lord and this brings us comfort in the hope of seeing him again. Until then, his parents, siblings, brother and sister-in-law, nieces, nephew, extended family members, and friends will miss him dearly.

Daniels Family Funeral Services

3113 Carlisle Blvd NE

Albuquerque, NM 87110

505-884-1188