Thomas Jeremy M. Contreras

Thomas Jeremy Matthew Contreras December 9, 1978 - October 13, 2010 Master, teacher, and guide to his two beloved sons, loving Brother to his little sister, devoted friend to many, and son who made his parents proud, Thomas Contreras was tragically taken from his loved ones far too soon. In his all-too-short time with us in this world, he touched the lives of many. Stricken with a seizure disorder nine years ago, his obstacles were greater than most of us can imagine. Still, his independent spirit and desire to make his life better for his boys and himself give him the drive to earn an education. Even when the simplest of tasks, like getting to and from work, became a battle against the system, he never gave up fighting for his right to earn a living and an education. He had gone as far as to earn his MBA, and was working on getting into law school. He was a champion of human rights causes, a leader in the GE Hispanic Forum at his work, elected to the Democratic State Central Committee, and a tireless voice for anyone with disabilities. He was deeply spiritual, and believed that his life and the lives of his children were gifts from God to be treasured every day. He is survived by his two sons, Carlos and Joseph Gallegos-Contreras (the center of his world), sister Geena Long, mother Angela Andazola, father Tom Contreras, grandparents Simon and Martha Andazola and Jenny and Bob Contreras, and a loving family of aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends whose lives are better for having him be a part of it, however briefly. We love you, TJ, and we miss you. You are always in our hearts. May you be at Peace. And we know you will forever be watching, loving, and silently guiding your two boys to become the kind of men that their father would be proud of. Rosary / Memorial Service: Wed, October 20th, 6pm Daniels Family Funeral Services 2400 Southern Blvd, Rio Rancho (1.9 miles west of 528 & Southern) Post Memorial reception: Wed, October 20th, 7pm Italian American Association Club, Rio Rancho 1565 Stephanie Rd (corner of Stephanie and Sara, 2 blocks east of 528) Mass: Thurs, October 21st, 10:30am Immaculate Conception Parish 619 Copper Ave NW, Albuquerque (Enter through the North Parking Lot) Thomas’ care has been entrusted to: Daniels Family Funeral Services 2400 Southern Blvd SE Rio Rancho, NM 87124 (505) 891-9192