Tonie Celia Gurule Mendez

Tonie Celia Gurule Mendez, 76 of Albuquerque, died on October 20th, 2023. As she left this world she was surrounded by her loving family. Tonie was passionate about life and living each day to the fullest. She cherished being a wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She was incredibly gracious, always vibrant, and described by others as caring, compassionate, quick-witted, and feisty.

Born in Algodones, NM on June 13th, 1947 to Ofimiano and Rosa Gurule. She was raised in Albuquerque where she graduated from Sandia High School. She met her husband in high school while moon-watching. Upon seeing him she knew he would be the man she would marry. In 1970 she married Antonio Mendez.

She was the first in her family to go to college. After receiving her Masters from the University of New Mexico, she worked as a special education teacher for Albuquerque Public Schools. Having taught, influenced, touched, and shaped many lives, she was well respected and admired by all she came in contact with. A great smile and compassionate greeting were given to all that she met. We will all miss her welcoming smile.

She is survived by her beloved husband Antonio Mendez of 53 years. Her son Michael Mendez, his children Alexis, Marcello, and Sophia. Her daughter Adrianna (Adam) Brasel, their children Isaiah Chavez, Kyra, Anneliese, Jeremiah, Ruth, and Zechariah Brasel. Her sisters Evelyn (Randy) Sanchez and Clara (Anthony W.) Duran. She was preceded in death
by her parents Ofimiano and Rosa Gurule, her favorite aunt Isabel “Nana” Apodaca, two uncles Nick Apodaca and Florio Apodaca, also cousin Daniel Sanchez.

A Rosary and viewing will be held on Tuesday, November 7, 2023, at 6:00 p.m. at Daniels Funeral Home - 7601 Wyoming Blvd. NE. A Mass will be held on Wednesday, November 8, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. at Risen Savior Catholic
Church. Burial following at Sunset Memorial Park.