Willie M. Orona

Willie Orona, age 83, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, February 4, 2014 with his family by his side. He is survived by four siblings, Valentin Orona and wife, Mary Jane of Fresno, CA, Lillian Romero of Tome, NM, Pat Montes and husband, Ralph of Los Lunas, NM and Dorothy Godley and husband John of Springfield, VA; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Juan and Modesta Orona; brother, Oswald Orona; brother-in-law, Juan Romero; nieces, Theresa Romero and Carol Armendariz; and nephew, David Orona. Willie served honorably as a Corporal in the U.S. Army Reserve during the Korean War and was a member of the American Legion, The Cattle Growers Association, and The Wool Growers Association. He retired from the Railroad after 25 years of service. Willie was a prominent rancher and farmer in Bingham, NM and Las Nutrias, NM where he earned the title of Chile King by his family. He ran his business up until the day he went to be with the Lord. He was a very generous and giving brother, uncle and friend. A Mass will be celebrated Saturday, February 8, 2014, 9:00 a.m., at Immaculate Conception Parish, 7 Church Loop, Tome, NM. Friends may visit beginning at 8:30 a.m. Pallbearers will be Dr. John Orona, Don Schultz, Daniel Orona, Aaron Baldonado, Diego Benavidez and Isidro Najar. The family would like to especially thank his caregivers, John Barger, JoAnn Baldonado, Isidro Najar, Javier Quintana, Rebekah Benavidez and Katrina Chavez-Lopez for their patience, love and kindness they gave to Willie. Should family and friends desire, memorial contributions may be made to The Boys Ranch of NM or the charity of your choice. FRENCH - Wyoming 7121 Wyoming Blvd. NE (505) 823-9400