Edumenio (Ed) Rael

Edumenio (Ed) Rael, age 93, of Albuquerque, NM, passed away peacefully on September 9, 2023. He was born to Albinita Page Rael and Lecadio Rael who's other four children Kathryn, Justin, Cecilia, and Margaret, preceded him in death. He is survived by his wife Pauline Rael, his eight children: Greg (Patti) Rael, Mark Rael, Jeanette (David) Nevarez, Paul (Luanna) Rael, Andrew Rael, Mary Edna (Ron) Nolan, Louise Rael, and Tom (Jan) Rael; ten grandchildren and twelve great grandchildren. Ed was born in Albuquerque's Martineztown neighborhood but spent his early years in many places: Escobosa, where he helped his father with crops; Puerto de Luna, where his mother taught school; and Albuquerque, where he graduated from Saint Mary's High School and attended the College of St Joseph.

Ed then made the decision to serve his country and joined the Navy. Following his discharge from the Navy, Ed attended the University of New Mexico. There he met his beautiful wife Pauline Baca whom he adored and doted upon. Married 70 years, they both worked full time to raise their kids, in whom they instilled the importance of education, hard work, loving God and loving each other. Pauline and Ed were able to enjoy a long retirement traveling throughout Europe and the United States, and spending time with their grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Ed was active in the Albuquerque Public Schools serving on the parent advisory board for seven years and running for the APS School Board. He attended every PTA event, and his children soon learned the risk of acting-up in school because Ed was on a first name basis with every teacher and administrator.

Ed read the newspaper every day, a habit he learned from his parents who had one of the only subscriptions in Martineztown. Neighbors often gathered at their home to read the latest news. He was a historian who truly loved the history of New Mexico and had an amazing memory for facts.

Ed was an excellent cook. He made giant meals every night and ensured his family ate together. His posole and carne adovada were legendary. These recipes defined the taste of the holidays for his family.

Ed loved to visit the family land in Escobosa where his father once farmed beans and wheat. It was there that his children, nephews and nieces listened to Ed tell stories about his childhood growing up on the ranch and experiencing the joy of riding around the mountains in the back of a pickup truck. Ed would also lead his family on long hikes through the beautiful mountains.

A viewing will be held Thursday, September 21, 2023, at 9:30 a.m., followed by a rosary at 10:30 a.m. and a mass at 11:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Fatima. A burial will follow mass at Mt. Calvary Cemetery.