Jose "Ruben" Vigil

Jose “Ruben” Vigil

Jose “Ruben” Vigil, age 91, beloved father, grandfather, great grandfather and brother, passed away on Thursday, May 9, 2019.  He was born in Velarde, NM to Ruben and Gertrude Vigil on September 14, 1927.

He is preceded in death by his parents, son Joseph, siblings Gerardito, Armando, Archie and Toni Valdez, brothers-in-law George Valdez and Victor Gray, and sister-in-law Patty Vigil.

Ruben is survived by daughters, Bonnie (Orlando), Rita (Tomas), grandchildren Dana (Chris), Christopher, Debi, and great-granddaughter Azure (Travis).  He is also survived by siblings Robert (Orlinda), Roy (Mely), Orelia Gray, Tony (Viola), Rosie, Orlando (Kam), Gloria (Richard) Roybal, and Carmen (Allen) Montoya.  He also leaves behind many cherished nieces, nephews, friends and neighbors Susan and Lydia.

Mr. Vigil served 4 years in the U.S. Navy and earned 4 medals-World War II Victory Medal, American Area Campaign Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and China Service Medal.

Ruben attended Highlands University and University of New Mexico.  He taught Math and English at various Albuquerque middle schools and was a counselor at Rio Grande High School, West Mesa High School and TVI (now CNM).

He loved to run and ran numerous marathons including London, Hawaii, New York, and Boston.  He also ran Pikes Peak and La Luz Trail runs.

A rosary and mass will be held on Friday, May 17, 2019, 10:00 am at Daniels Family Funeral Services 3113 Carlisle NE , interment will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery, 1900 Edith Blvd NE.  A reception will follow.