Victor Fortunato De Oreo

  Victor F. De Oreo, age 70, passed away on October 11, 2025, from illness. Victor was born on May 5, 1955, to Antonio and Bonnie (Mills) De Oreo in Cleveland, Ohio. As a young boy, his family moved to Albuquerque, New Mexico, where he grew up. Later in life, when his mom remarried, she had two daughters, Cheryl and Bonnie Jean.

  Victor enjoyed living in the North Valley. He would often ride his bike to the West Mesa volcanos or up to the Coronado Mall area. Victor was a member of Boy Scout Troop #2 and had many happy memories of hiking and camping at Doc Long's Place. Victor liked spending time with his Aunt Bonnie and Uncle Joe Michael and his cousins Joe (who he asked to be his Best Man), Tim, and Terry.

  After attending Valley High School, Victor joined the US Army and achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant in the Cavalry Division. He served both in the USA and Germany. He traveled all over Europe visiting Marian Shrines, cathedrals, castles, and famous landmarks. He learned how to oil paint, ski, and cook German recipes while stationed overseas.

  Victor returned to the USA after completing his years of military service and earned his Associate’s Degree in Telecommunications. He met and married the love of his life, Catherine (Pisarra), in 1983. They moved to Rio Rancho, where they lived until he passed away.

  Victor is survived by his loving wife, Catherine, of 42 years, and their children, Victoria De Oreo and Rev. James De Oreo, his sister Cheryl and family, his sister-in-law Anita Holly Reina and her children, Joe, Danny, Julianna (Angelina and Julian), Juanita, Crystal, and their children. Victor is also survived by close family friend, Rev. Terry Brennan, and caregiver, Louie Serrato, as well as other friends that have kept Victor in their loving thoughts and prayers.

  Autumn was Victor's favorite time of year. He enjoyed taking photos of hot air balloons flying overhead and the changing aspens on Sandia Crest. Victor was an avid soccer player since high school. He coached both his kids and later coached JV Girls Soccer in several area high schools. His favorite team was Manchester United, but he was proud of his large collection of soccer jerseys from teams all over the world. Victor also looked forward to college football season. Whether he was watching the game on TV or in the stadium, he always cheered for the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame. Victor also liked to spend time working in our backyard. He grew beautiful roses as well as fruits and veggies. Every harvest we were able to enjoy grapes and peaches from our garden.

  Victor was a devout Catholic and active member of the Church of the Incarnation. He always offered a helping hand to those who needed one, be it a fellow colleague or the poor in Uganda. He had a great sense of humor – when he laughed, he always had a twinkle in his eye. Victor was faithful to his family, who was always dear to his heart. Victor, My Love, you will be deeply missed!

A special debt of gratitude is owed for the caring help of our pastor, Rev. Michael Garcia, Deacon George Meryerson, and Choir Director Elizabeth Illerbrun.

In lieu of flowers, please consider planting a tree in Victor's name or make a donation either to the Knights of Columbus Charity/Persecuted Christians in the Middle East or the Little Sisters of the Poor in Gallup, NM.

Viewing and Rosary will take place on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Daniels Funeral Home, 2400 Southern Blvd. SE, in Rio Rancho.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at 11:30 a.m. at the Church of the Incarnation in Rio Rancho, with Christian Burial and Taps at 2:00 p.m. at Santa Fe National Cemetery.