Joe David Maese

Joe David Maese lived 86 happy, eventful years, and in all that time he managed to never meet a stranger.

He died June 5, leaving behind a sprawling family that embodies his playful ways. He was an award-winning wood carver, a lover of small dogs and a collector of kisses on the cheek from beautiful ladies. His sparkling wit matched the delight that danced in his eyes, and he will be missed by all who knew his smile.

Joe David was born June 30, 1930 in Las Vegas, New Mexico, the second of Jesus and Frances Maese’s eight children. He briefly served in the U.S. Army, which brought him to Kansas, where sparks flew with a beautiful young woman named Lorrie. The two were married for 49 years and raised a large family, never short on jokes or opinions. A trained mechanic, Joe David spent his career fixing and building things, and worked for three decades at Coronado Center.

He will be most remembered for his deep love of people and for his joyful peals of laughter. He enjoyed dancing and nights on the town, the Oakland Raiders, Model A cars, his church and, most of all, his family.

He belonged to the Rio Grande Wood Carvers, the Pocos Quatros Model A Club and the Native New Mexican Seniors Club.  He spent the last decade of his life with Frances Riveria, who enriched his twilight years with fun and companionship.

He was preceded in death by his wife, son Tony Maese, and four siblings. He is survived by his children Connie Chee and husband Ray, Wanda Maese and Sam Maese and wife Grace, as well as three siblings, eight grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, one great-great granddaughter, and the many others who considered him their grandpa, too.

A viewing will be held from 3-4 p.m. Sunday, followed by a rosary, at the Nativity of Blessed Virgin Mary Church, 9502 4th St. NW. A funeral mass followed by a reception will be held at the church at 9 a.m. Monday.

Daniels Family Funeral Services
3113 Carlisle Blvd NE
Albuquerque, NM 87110
(505) 884-1188