Joe A. Santillanes

SANTILLANES- Joe A. Santillanes, age 85, passed away peacefully with his loving family surrounding him. Joe was born February 22, 1926 in Albuquerque, New Mexico to Jose Moises and Faustina (Luna)Santillanes. He is survived by his loving wife Carla Santillanes; his devoted children Irene Schneider and husband, David; Mary Jo Santillanes; Sophie Chavez and husband, Frank; Mona Torres and husband Max; Joesph A. (Jay) Santillanes and wife Matejka; His step-children Marci Herrera and husband Henry; Nathan Lucero and wife KC; his two brothers David M. Santillanes and L.A. “Tony” Santillanes; 11 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; his former wife and mother of his children Josie Santillanes; his devoted caregiver Angela Ortiz; and special friends Arturo Tafoya and Debbie Trujillo. Joe was a lifelong resident of New Mexico. Joe loved his life as a rancher, as well as watching old western movies. He also enjoyed playing a good game of pool and was very active in politics. Joe is remembered as a great mentor for helping many young children learn the basics of the game of baseball as their coach. Joe was a veteran of the Navy and served on the U.S.S. Thatcher during WWII. Joe was also a life member of the American Legion Post #69. He was preceded in death by his parents. A visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 21, 2011 from 5:30 pm until 7:00 pm at San Miguel Catholic Church, Socorro, NM. A Rosary will be recited at 7:00 pm following the visitation at the church. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, June 22, 2011 at 9:00 am at San Miguel Catholic Church with Father Andrew Pavlak as Celebrant. Interment will be in Albuquerque at San Carlos Cemetery (off of Alameda Road) with Military Honors at 3:00 pm. Pallbearers are Andre Tafoya, Johnny Joe Mann, Frank J. Chavez, Randy Mann, Max Torres III, Joseph A. Santillanes. Honorary Pallbearers are Nathan Lucero, Henry Rosas, Jr., and Scott Schneider. Joe’s care has been entrusted to: Daniels Family Funeral Services 309 Garfield Socorro, NM 87801 (575) 835-1530