Frankie Chee Willetto Jr.

Frankie Chee Willetto Jr., aged 70, peacefully passed away on Sunday, May 12, 2024, in Rio Rancho, NM. He was born on September 14, 1953, in Rehoboth Mission, NM, to his loving parents Frank Chee Willetto Sr. and Eleanor Willetto. Frankie was a proud graduate of Cuba High School, Class of 1973. On July 21, 1973, he married the love of his life, Mabel Jim, at Torreon Navajo Mission in Torreon, NM.

Throughout his career, Frankie dedicated 20 years to BIE - Pueblo Pintado Community School and an additional two years working for The Navajo Tribe while overseeing the construction of the Torreon Preschool Building. Attending Drafting School to specialize in Constructing Buildings held a special place in his heart. In his leisure time, Frankie found joy in fishing, hunting, carpentry, silversmithing, and constructing buildings.

Frankie was deeply involved in his community and served as a leader and Representative on the Board of Education. He was a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

Frankie is now reunited with his parents Frank and Eleanor Willetto; his sister Francena Sandoval; brothers Fredrick Nelson and Dennis R. Willetto; nephew Jason Thomas; niece Anita Hotz; grandson, Derek Morgan.  He leaves behind his beloved wife of 50 years, Mabel Willetto; daughters Jodie Willetto and Wendi Willetto; sisters Gail Willetto, Priscilla Charley, Alfreeta Sandoval, Peggy Willetto-West, Elaine Devore, Debbie Ann Willetto, Marcella Willetto-Antonio; brothers David Willetto and DeWayne Nelson; grandchildren Tristan Lente, Samantha Lente, Ambrose Lente, Jaren Morgan, Julyssa Morgan; great-grandchildren Xzephenia Lente, Amaya Lente, Khaliah Lente; as well as his cherished pet Lucy.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, May 21st at 10:00 a.m. at Daniels Family Funeral Services – Southern Chapel located at 2400 Southern Blvd. SE in Rio Rancho, NM. The service will commence at 11:00 a.m., where we will come together to honor and remember the remarkable life of Frankie Chee Willetto Jr..