Sheldon Kalberg

KALBERG, SHELDON The world lost Sheldon Kalberg on November 5th, 2014. He was born June 16th, 1943, to Martin and Karen Kalberg in Glendive, Montana. Sheldon leaves behind his adoring daughters, Kirstin and Lisa Kalberg of Albuquerque, son-in-law Andy Browning and grandson, Dylan. He is also survived by his dear sister, JoAnn Roe, brother-in-law, Carl Roe, and their children, Peggy Maez, Mike, Tom, and Tim Roe, as well as many great nieces and nephews. He was blessed with an extraordinary blended family including Wendy Kalberg, Scott Hand, Mike McConnell-Hand, Kristen Albers and their families, as well as the Oakes extended family who also remained close. Central to his life were his many treasured friends, students, and peers; kindred spirits who shared his love of music. His lifelong musical career began in Los Alamos, New Mexico where he was the beloved high school choral director for almost two decades. After moving to Albuquerque In 1984, Sheldon embarked on twenty six years of musical fellowship as Director of Music at First Presbyterian Church, retiring in 2011. One of the greatest joys of his professional musical career was directing the Sangre de Cristo Chorale during its first twenty-five years. In addition to being a fine choral director, he was an exceptional performer who carried the lead in a number of musical theatre productions including; Flower Drum Song, The King and I, Showboat, Anything Goes, The Fantasticks, Stop the World I Want to Get Off, and You're a Good Man Charlie Brown. His diverse talents ranged from singing and playing keyboard in various ensembles to performing with Musica Antigua de Albuquerque. Words cannot express how much we miss you; lover of irreverent humor, chocolate connoisseur, quick-witted quipster, musical genius, maestro, dynamic performer, devoted friend, treasured soul mate, gentle loving 'Bestefar,' and cherished father. A musical celebration of Sheldon's life will be held on Saturday, November 15th at 1 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church in Albuquerque, New Mexico. In lieu of flowers, memorial tributes can be made to V&L Care, 1325 Gabaldon Rd. NW, Albuquerque, NM, 87104, or the First Presbyterian Church Music Program at 215 Locust St. NE, Albuquerque, NM, 87102. Heartfelt gratitude to V&L Care - Eva, Adriana, Terricia, Kristina, Betty, and Maria, and Hospice de La Luz for their dedicated, compassionate care of Sheldon during his final days.