Dennis Tapia

Ramon Dennis Tapia, 58 of Vaughn, NM died at his home Sunday, September 18, 2011. He was born April 18, 1953 in Vaughn, NM the son of Cipriano and Guadalupe (Pena) Tapia. He attended Vaughn schools and graduated in 1971. He later attended New Mexico Highlands University where he received his BA in Biology. Dennis worked for many years with the NM Highway Department as a Geological Technician. He also worked several years in road construction. Dennis loved working in his garden, walking his dog, Black Betty and he enjoyed having his nieces and nephews around. Dennis was loved by many and made friends with everyone he met. He is preceded in death by his parents, a sister Linda Castillo and brother in law Lorenzo Castillo. Survivors include two sons Ramon D. Tapia Jr. of Vaughn, NM; Lucas Tapia of Las Vegas, NM; the mother of his children Lala Pacheco of Santa Rosa; two brothers C.E. Tapia of Commerce City, CO and George Cordova of Logan, NM; also surviving are two sisters Lilia Gallegos and husband Tony and Florida Tapia all of Vaughn, NM; uncles Albert Pena of Taos, NM; and Andy Pena of Albuquerque; aunts Bea Felix of Rio Rancho, NM; Helen Garcia and husband Tony of Portales, NM; Carmen Montano of Santa Fe; and Carmen Drager of Topeka, KS. Rosary services will be held at 7:00 PM Tuesday, September 20, 2011 from St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Vaughn, NM. Dolores Sanchez will lead the prayers. Mass will be held at 10:00 AM Wednesday, September 21, 2011 from the church with Father Simeon Wimmershoff officiating. Burial will follow at Evergreen Cemetery in Vaughn, NM. Pallbearers will include Luis Castillo, Lefonso Castillo, Lorenzo Castillo Jr., Consuelo Gallegos, Juanita Gallegos, Norman Madrid, Miguel Gallegos and Jason Pacheco. All arrangements for Mr. Tapia are under the direction of Chavez Funeral Home, 923 S. Third Street; Santa Rosa, NM. (575) 472-3369. To place an online tribute or sign the guest book please visit www.chavezfuneralhome.com