NICOLAS ROGELIO NARANJO
Nicolas Rogelio Naranjo passed away on Thursday, December 28th, 2023. He was surrounded by loved ones and prayer as he was called home suddenly and unexpectedly.
He is preceded in death by his son, Stephen Naranjo; his parents: Nicolas and Syria Naranjo; his brothers: Sam and Leroy Naranjo; his parents-in-law: Onofre and Margaret Gallegos; his brothers-in-law: Onofre Gallegos, Robert Gallegos, Mark Gallegos, and Carl Toti; and his sisters-in-law: Julia and Patricia Gallegos.
He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Lena Naranjo; his daughters, Natalie (Billy) Naranjo-Rodriguez of Corrales and Nicole (Carlos) Naranjo-Martinez of Corrales; his grandchildren, Kyle (Morgan) Martinez, Nicholas Rodriguez, Lauren Martinez, Jacqueline Rodriguez, and Maya Martinez; his great-grandchildren, Emma, Benjamin, and Claire Martinez; and numerous nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his Naranjo siblings, Fidel (Alice) from White Rock, Commissioner Alex (Lenore), Theresa, and Sr. Judge Orlinda (Jim Ewbank) from Austin, Texas. His in-laws are Rita (Marc) Baca, Pricilla Rael, Lorraine (Tony) Drake, John Gallegos, Loretta (Joseph) Chavez, MaryAnn Carreon, and David (Linda) Gallegos and Michael (Rhonda) Gallegos.
Nicolas (Nick) graduated from the College of Santa Fe with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. He served four years in the US Air Force, subsequently working as a city policeman in Espanola. Later, he served as a judge for the City of Espanola and as an auditor for the State of New Mexico. His career concluded with his retirement as a purchasing agent for the Espanola Valley Schools. Post-retirement, Nick continued his service as a lobbyist for the City of Espanola, an elected board member, and chairman of the Jemez Electric Cooperative. He was deeply devoted to his family and exhibited profound care for the people of Espanola. Known for his constant availability and willingness to help, Nick spent much of his time on the phone, helping those who reached out. Remarkably, he never harbored grudges and was quick to forgive. His positive attitude extended to his love for jokes and a notable absence of complaints. Nick was passionate about politics and civic matters, consistently encouraging people to do their best in all situations. As a man of integrity, he always helped when he could, and his word meant everything. Generosity defined him, as evidenced by his support for charities such as Mercy Ships, Smile Train, Shriners, St. Judes, and Joy Junction. He had a heart of gold and regularly aided others with tax-related matters on a pro bono basis.
Nick’s passing leaves a significant void for all who loved him. His resilience and compassionate nature have undoubtedly left an impact on his community.
Pallbearers: Carlos Martinez, Kyle Martinez, Nicholas Rodriguez, John Ramon Vigil, Mike Naranjo, and Orlando Martinez
A public visitation will be on Wednesday, January 10, 2024, at 5:00 PM at DeVargas Funeral Home in Espanola, NM, with the rosary following at 6 PM. Mass of the Christian Burial will be on Thursday, January 11, 2024, at 12:00 PM at the Sacred Heart Church of Espanola, New Mexico. Burial will follow at the National Cemetery in Santa Fe, NM, at 2:30 PM.