Anastacio Cordova

Tacho, age 72, passed away peacefully in his sleep at home on Thursday, March 7, 2013 in Albuquerque, NM. He was born May 18, 1941 to Reynaldo and Mabel Cordova in Tularosa, NM. He married Rosalie Aguilar in Tularosa, NM and eventually raised four children. Tacho most loved his family and was happiest when surrounded by his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. He loved animals and was a real life cowboy who rode his horse "Windy" and completely spoiled his dog Tasha. Tacho never met a plant he couldn't grow into a beautiful creation, and was an avid gardener. In retirement, he chose to drive school buses for Durham Bus Company for the developmentally challenged and had made several friends among the kids he drove as well as their parents. He was fond of talking about them and was a constant supporter and encourager. Tacho always had a wonderful story to share with friends and family, and he lived his life purposefully, with enthusiasm, energy and incredible passion. Tacho never shrunk from adversity and in fact, was at his best when faced with challenges. His struggle with cancer began in 2004 and was nothing short of miraculous as well as inspirational. Survivors include his wife of 54 years, Rosalie; his children, Tina Cordova and Russ Steward, Matthew Cordova and Rita Torrez, Tammy Landrum, Bill Cordova and wife, Stacey of Albuquerque; eight grandchildren, David Montoya and wife Charlotte, April Cordova and Tyrell Garcia, Valerie, Audrey, Mackenzie, Luke, Jackson Cordova, and Livia Landrum; and three great-grandchildren, Demetrius and Marcus Montoya and Tyrell Garcia all of Albuquerque; two brothers, Ray Cordova and wife Cathy and Godfrey Cordova and wife Pam; sister, Floy VanBuskirk and husband Larry; father-in - law, Ralph Vigil; cherished cousin Ben Duran; as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; his grandparents; mother-in-law Dora Vigil; sister in law, Sylvia Powell, and beloved grandson, Stephen Bennett. The family would like to thank Dr. Mike Spafford, Dr. Lee, Millie, Marsha, all of the nurses at the UNM Chemo infusion suite, Mary Lou, Yamalet, Barbara, Chris, and Nathan of Harmony Hospice. A Memorial Rosary will be held at Risen Savior Catholic Church, 7701 Wyoming Blvd. NE, Albuquerque, NM on Tuesday, March 12, 2013 at 4:00 p.m. A Memorial Mass will be held the following day, Wednesday, March 13, 2013 at 10:00 a.m. at Risen Savior Catholic Church with interment to immediately follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in his name to the UNM Cancer Center, 1201 Camino de Salud NE, Albuquerque, NM.