Cruz L. Tafoya

Cruz L. Tafoya passed away on July 18, 2022, in Rio Rancho, NM at the age of 93.

Cruz is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Stella Tafoya of Rio Rancho, NM; son, David and wife, Elaine Tafoya of Rio Rancho, NM; grandchildren, Laura and husband, George Schubert, Jonathan and wife, Melissa Tafoya, and Meriah Kentla of Rio Rancho, NM; greatgrandchildren, Kira Schubert, Owen Schubert, Thane Tafoya, and Liara Tafoya of Rio Rancho, NM. He is preceded in death by his sons, Danny Tafoya and Kenny Tafoya; parents, Cruz and Faustina Tafoya; and siblings, Sista, Delordes, Diego, Rosella, Gertrude, Orlando, and Viola.

Cruz was born on December 25, 1928, in Monticello, New Mexico to Cruz C. Tafoya and Faustina Montoya. He graduated from Galileo High School in San Francisco, CA in 1946. Cruz enlisted in the Army from 1951-1956 and served in the Korean War. He married the love of his life, Stella Clorinda Brown on October 26, 1957, in Albuquerque, NM. Cruz worked as an independent truck driver from 1955-1974. He later worked for the City of Albuquerque in the traffic engineering department before retiring in 1993.

Cruz enjoyed going outside and gardening. He also loved reading and catching up on current events. He cherished spending family time together and being involved in family events.

He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

A Memorial contribution can be sent to Cancer Society or Muscular Dystrophy Association in honor of Cruz L. Tafoya.

A memorial service will take place at 10:30 am on Friday, July 29, 2022, with a reception to follow at Calvary Chapel of Rio Rancho, 138 Frontage Rd NE, Rio Rancho, NM 87124.