George Ernest Valdez

George Valdez, 88, went home to the Lord on Friday, April 11, 2025.

He is survived by his nephew, Samuel Arellano and his wife, Sally, and their children, Daniel Arellano and Julie Saiz, and her husband, Patrick and their children, Grace and Gabriel.

He is also survived by Arthur Duran and his wife Pauline, and their children, Glen Duran, his wife, Lara, and Andrea Jaramillo and her husband, Juan, and their extended family.

George was preceded in death by his long-time companion, Carmen Duran, and her son, Max Duran; his parents, Joe and Candelaria; and his siblings, Josie, Arthur, Ben, Joe, Christina, Fred, Robert, and Virginia.

George was also preceded in death by his adored canine companions, Gertie, Honey, and Prissy.

He was a devoted caregiver to Carmen for several years up until her passing in 2010. He visited her gravesite everyday — rain, snow or shine — for 13 years.

George served his country honorably in the Army as a parachute rigger and retired from the Air National Guard after 20 years.

George was always loving and generous with his family. His favorite phrase was, “What’s the good word? God is good everyday.”

He had a great capacity for curiosity about the world and he would begin many conversations by asking, “I wonder why…?“ He was fascinated by the natural world and especially loved, dogs, cats, pigeons, and hummingbirds.

A Mass will be held for Mr. Valdez on Wednesday, April 30, 2025 at 9:00 a.m. at Holy Family Catholic Church located at 562 Atrisco Dr SW, Albuquerque, NM 87105. A Burial to follow the service to Sunset Memorial Park loctaed at 924 Menaul Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87107.