Rodolfo Parga

Rodolfo "Rudy" Parga, Sr., age 81, our Superman, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, December 12th, 2024, with family at his side after valiantly battling a rare neurodegenerative disease linked to his prior military service to our country.

He lived for his family and always emphasized a strong work ethic and being kind to people. He supported his family by working as a pharmaceutical salesman, covering a large geographic territory of two states, including New Mexico. Even though his travel schedule was demanding, he never missed an opportunity to attend all the important life memories of his children and later grandchildren, including school functions, sporting events, fishing trips, piano recitals, and graduations. In retirement, he became a gifted santero, carving beautiful religious artworks, some of which reside in museums.

He is survived by his wife of almost 59 years, Velia M. Parga; his children, Rebecca Parga, Rodolfo Parga, Jr., Ruben Parga; his grandchildren, Cristina Strunk, Miguel Strunk, Gabriela Strunk, Ariana Strunk, Daniela Parga, Andres Parga, Isabel Parga and Ava Parga; and his great- granddaughter, Luisa Grover.

He is also survived by his brothers, Frank and Richie Parga, and sister, Suki Parga. He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Sofia Parga, and his brother, Luis Parga.

A public visitation will be held on Thursday, January 2, 2025, 5:00 p.m., followed by a rosary at 6:00 p.m. at FRENCH - Westside Chapel.

Mass will be held the following day at Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Catholic Church, 5415 Fortuna Road NW in Albuquerque at 11:00 a.m., on Friday, January 3rd, 2025, and he will be buried at the Santa Fe National Cemetery at 2:00 p.m. later the same day.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Habitat for Humanity, as Rudy and his wife enjoyed helping build homes for families in need.