José Arencé�n

Born February 24, 1949, in Almendralejo, Badajoz Spain, the son of the late Diego & Teresa Arencé�n, passed away peacefully Saturday, January 12, 2013 at age 63, surrounded by his family in Albuquerque, New Mexico. A prominent gypsy flamenco singer, José, "Pelete", was known for his compelling voice. He began singing as a child, and became a professional singer as a teenager. He performed with many international companies. While on tour in Spain, José met Elizabeth Lujan, a flamenco dancer, who was born and raised in Albuquerque. In 1974, José and Elizabeth were married in Madrid, Spain. A year later, they moved to Albuquerque, bringing the traditional roots of flamenco to the Duke City. José was the proud owner of his own business enterprise, known as "La Fragua." With his anvil, forge and skilled hands, José created many pieces of wrought iron metalwork by traditional Spanish methods, and his handiwork now adorns many New Mexico homes and businesses. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 39 years, Elizabeth Lujan Arencé�n; along with his two children, Diego Arencé�n, wife Lupe Arencé�n, and Monica Arencé�n-Smith, husband Terrance Smith. He is also survived by his grandchildren who knew him fondly as "Abuelo": Nikolas Ventura-Arencé�n, Santino Arencé�n, Loliana Arencé�n, Sade Arencé�n Smith, Isabel Arencé�n Smith and Diego Arencé�n, Jr. A Catholic Mass will be celebrated at Sacred Heart Church, 412 Stover Ave. SW, on Thursday, January 17, 2013 at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery, 1900 Edith Blvd. NE.