Aurora Deluvina Pando

Aurora Deluvina Pando passed away peacefully on January 17, 2024, just four days after her 89th birthday. Aurora is survived by her sisters, Celia Duran and Lucille Duran, her daughter, Viola (Vi) Pando, her granddaughter Desiree (Desi) Padilla and Desi's family, husband Jason Padilla and three great grandchildren Caleb, Cayden, and Coraline. Aurora was preceded in death by her son, Robert Ray Pando, daughter, Diane Katherine Howard, and her sister Della Lopez.

Born and raised in Mora, NM, Aurora married young and moved to West Jordan, Utah, where she and her husband raised their three children. Later in life, she returned to NM and lived independently in Albuquerque until her death.

Aurora was a unique, complex, and very strong woman. She was a survivor. She rose above tragedy early in life and faced numerous challenges throughout life, but bravely overcame each.

After divorcing later in life, Aurora attended cosmetology school, graduated, and operated her own salon for years without support from anyone. This achievement was rightfully her crowning glory.

Aurora was an artist who painted unique and beautiful pictures. Her other hobbies included tending her garden and playing games of chance.

Aurora also found great joy in going to casinos and giving advice. The casinos were her happy place, but it was not just the thrill of winning that gave her joy. She had many friends there who valued her because she cared and listened to those in need. Aurora will be remembered for passionately sharing her hard earned wisdom, and for giving the sick a place to stay while healing.

Aurora had other remarkably close friendships throughout life. Two friends who stand out in this regard are Juana Torres and Patricia Martinez. Aurora's family extends its unending gratitude to both of these women for unconditionally loving Aurora and helping her until the end.

Despite suffering from extraordinary health challenges, including diabetes and macular degeneration, Aurora loved life until the end. 

Aurora will be dearly missed by all who loved her, and especially by her daughter, Vi.