Michael Maldonado

On August 4, 2021, the Lord called upon Michael A. Maldonado beloved father, son, brother, uncle, nephew and cousin. Michael’s death was unexpected and he was too young to leave us so soon. Michael was born June 9, 1976. He had a big heart and was always helpful; going above and beyond for others. He was a kind, loving, friendly person. He knew how to make you smile and was always cracking jokes just to make you laugh. No matter what mood you were in, when he came around he knew how to brighten the room. He cherished every moment with his kids and was very proud of all their accomplishments. He never met a stranger, and was always making new friends. Michael enjoyed watching the Pittsburgh Steeler’s and being in the outdoors. He will be dearly missed; we know that he will be another angel to watch over us all.

Michael is preceded in death by his father Daniel (Danny) Gonzales, grandparents Antonio and Adela Maldonado and many aunties and uncles. Michael is survived by his mother Gloria Gonzales and stepfather Fred Hernandez and his children Gabriel (Kathleen), Matthew and Cadence Maldonado. Siblings are Eric (Stephanie) Gonzales, Marlene (Jeremy) Chavez, Marie (John) Chavez, and Ruben (Samantha) Gonzales. As well as, many nephews and nieces, aunts, uncles and cousins.

Pallbearers are Ruben Gonzales, Jeremy Chavez, Richie Chavez, Daniel Chavez, Jeffery Maldonado, John Silva, and Gabriel Maldonado.

A Rosary followed by the Mass of Resurrection will be recited on Friday, August 20, 2021 at the San Miguel Church, Socorro, NM.  Burial to follow and Michael will be laid to rest at Old San Mission Cemetery.

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           Saying goodbye is never easy, especially to someone so loved. Michael was a good man who always made everyone laugh. He was a devoted father, bother, son, uncle, nephew and cousin. He had a big heart and always went out of his ways to help others. He enjoyed spending time with his kids and family, and watching the Steelers play. He had a sweet tooth! He called his mom every morning, even if it was just to call and say “hi” and check in on her. This is just one example of his thoughtfulness and his caring nature.

                When Michael was younger he would walk with his brothers and cousins to the swimming pool or to the gym. They would be playing three streets down and hear their dad whistle and knew that it was time to go running home. They would walk all around Socorro and every Sunday they would go to the noon mass. He enjoyed going on family trips, and night fishing was one of his favorites! He loved to camp and get to just spend time with his family. They use to sleep on the roof in sleeping bags and slide down the hill for fun. Every day was a new adventure for them.

            When it came to being an uncle he always made sure to ask about his nieces and nephews. And every time that he saw them he would play around with them and make them laugh. He had a way of always making you feel welcome and went out of his way to comfort people and make them smile or laugh. He never looked down on people.

               Michael loved his kids dearly and tried to make sure that he talked to them every day. His kids always felt safe around him. If Cadence was in a bad mood, he made it a point to make her smile and laugh. She thought the world of her father and always wanted to spend time with him. The boys’ faces would light up when they saw their father; they were always happy to see him. He used to crack jokes and try make them laugh no matter what mood they were in. He was so proud of all of their accomplishments. He was always bragging about his kids and what they were doing. When he spoke about his love and pride shined through. He knew how great they are and that they are going to make their mark in the world!

            The other day we were all sitting around reminiscing and all of sudden it started to rain. Stephanie said that when she had lost her mom someone gave her a book that says that after three days if it rains that means that your loved one crossed over. We know that this is true and that Michael is in Heaven watching over all of us. Michael we love you and you will be missed!