Brian E. Tafoya

Brian E. Tafoya of Albuquerque died peacefully at his home on Oct. 20, 2017. He was 66. The second oldest child of Herman O. and Edna Tafoya, Brian was a 1969 graduate of Del Norte High School. Longtime teacher and former journalist, he earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism at the University of New Mexico in spring 1973, and became the sports editor of the Los Alamos Monitor that summer. The following year, he pursued Spanish studies in South America, and on his return, became editor of the 19 Pueblo News in Albuquerque.

Brian obtained his teaching certification in 1977 and began a long career with Albuquerque Public Schools, teaching English, Spanish and journalism at, among others, Eldorado High School and Madison Middle School. He was an adult Spanish teacher at UNM continuing education and also taught at the Digital Arts and Technology Academy charter school before his retirement in 2007.

He served in the Army Reserves as a journalist.

Well known for his sense of humor, quick wit and ability to make people laugh, Brian never met a stranger.

He was a lifelong New York Yankees fan and avid sports enthusiast who ran track at Del Norte and enjoyed recreational softball, bowling and other sports activities. He was a track and cross country coach at Eldorado.

He had numerous hobbies, including baking (winning ribbons at the state fair for his breads), sewing, quilting and photography.

But above all, Brian was a devoted husband, proud father and beaming grandfather.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Brian is survived by his wife of 37 years, Nancy; children Brianne Kacerguis (Jim) of Albuquerque, and Jacob of Boulder, CO; and grandson James V. Kacerguis III.

He also leaves brothers Herman O. Tafoya Jr. and Norman Tafoya (Anne) of Albuquerque; and sisters Sharon Burner (Bill) of Vienna, VA; Juliette Leverett (Gary) of Albuquerque; and Susan T. Sullivan of Ramstein, Germany.

A Life Celebration service will take place Monday, Oct. 30, at 10 a.m. at Salazar Mortuary, 400 Third St. SW Albuquerque, with a reception to follow. Interment will be at 3 p.m. at the Santa Fe National Cemetery. Donations in Brian’s memory may be made to the New Mexico Heart Institute.

A special thank-you goes out to all his family, friends and medical professionals who gave him comfort during his journey.

Please visit Brian’s online guestbook at www.SalazarFunerals.com