Juan J Griego

Juan Jose Griego, 76 of Fort Sumner, NM died Wednesday, May 13, 2009 at his home with his loving family at his bedside. He was born February 19, 1933 in Alamo, NM to the home of Susano and Carolina (Lopez) Griego. Juan attended schools in Fort Sumner. He worked for many years as a heavy equipment operator and cement finisher. He was a longtime employee with the Village of Fort Sumner retiring in 1993. Juan was a member of the Knights of Columbus, a parishioner of St. Anthony Catholic Church and after his retirement a full time “Pampo” to his grandchildren. Juan married Viola Pena on May 4, 1995 in Fort Sumner. Juan enjoyed metal detecting, was an avid hunter and fisherman, he spent many hours in his garden and according to his family was the best tortilla maker in the southwest. He was also an accomplished musician. Juan was preceded in death by his wife, Viola Griego on January 14, 2009; his father Susano Greigo in 1949, mother Carolina Griego in 2006 and a brother Albaro Griego in 1998. Survivors include a son Kurt Griego and wife Samantha of Fort Sumner; two daughters Cristine Gauna and Victor Ritch of Dalhart, TX; Kerrilyn Webb and husband Paul of Fort Sumner; two step-sons Scott Mackey and wife Lisa of Clovis; Peter Mackey of Maine; Step-daughter Rebeca Morgan and husband Sean of New Hampshire; two brothers Nick Griego and wife Jo of Fort Sumner; Sam Griego of Las Vegas, NM; a sister Cruzita Sena and husband Ramon of Clovis; a sister in law Charlotte Griego of Fort Sumner ; six grandchildren; eight step-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews, and a dear friend and longtime neighbor Adelaida Sanchez of Fort Sumner. Visitation will be Thursday from 1pm to 6pm at the funeral home and Friday from 11am to noon at the church. Rosary services will be held at 8:00 pm Friday, May 15, 2009 from St. Anthony Catholic Church in Fort Sumner. Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated from the church at 12:00 (noon) Saturday, May 16, 2009 with Father Steve Sanchez officiating. Burial will follow at Fort Sumner Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Rob Griego, Nick Griego, Jerry Griego, Daniel Sena, Donovan Ulibarri and David Gauna. Honorary bearer will be Richard Lopez. Arrangements are under the direction of Chavez Funeral Home, 830 N. Fifth Street; Fort Sumner, New Mexico. (575) 355-2311. To place an online tribute or sign the guest book visit www.chavezfuneralhome.com