Joseph B. Tafoya

Age 72, beloved father and grandfather was called home to be with the Lord on Thursday, March 27, 2014. He was preceded in death by his mother, Rose Tafoya and his father, Albino C. Tafoya. Joseph grew up in Barelas and was the oldest of five siblings. Joseph is survived by his two sisters, Mary Guyse and Lorrie Bivens; his two brothers, Al Tafoya and Leo Tafoya; and his three children, Joseph Tafoya Jr., Melissa Tafoya-Valencia and husband Sean, and Benny Tafoya; two grandchildren, Sean Valencia Jr. and Michael Valencia and many other family and friends. Mr. Tafoya attended Sacred Heart Catholic School and later joined the United States Army, serving in Korea in 1961 and completing two tours of service in Vietnam where he proudly served with the First Calvary Division. When he returned home he was employed by the University of New Mexico Hospital until he retired after 30 years of service. In his spare time he enjoyed listening to oldies and New Mexican music, watching westerns, sharing jokes, and rooting for the Raiders. Thank you for your love Dad, you will always be missed. A Rosary will be recited Wednesday, April 2, 2014 5:30 p.m. at FRENCH - LOMAS. Mass will be celebrated Thursday April 3, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 412 Stover Ave. SW.