Thomas Lee "Tom" Gabaldon Sr.

Thomas “Tom” Gabaldon Sr. passed away peacefully at his home in Grants, New Mexico surrounded by his family on November 6, 2023. He was born in Grants, New Mexico on February 8, 1947. He was 76 years of age.

He was a lifelong resident of Grants. He served in the US Army. He was a 30+ year member of the Union Local #16, an affiliate of LIUNA- The Laborers’ International Union of North America. He was the family carpenter.  He enjoyed camping, fishing and hunting.  He was devoted to his family, especially his grandchildren and when they grew up his great-grandchildren. He will be remembered for his easy-going, no complaining ways. He was loved and will be missed.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 54.5 years, Margie Gabaldon of the family home. Their children; Tommy Gabaldon Jr. and his wife Joann. And Maggie Mares and her husband Mark Sr.. 10 grandchildren; Brian Gabaldon (Stephanie), Sabrina Marquez, Mark Mares Jr. (Stephanie), Martina Mares (Hakeem Moore), Briana Gabaldon-Quintana (Jonathan), Raquel Gabaldon, Nathan Gabaldon (Sydnie Clawson), Stephen Valdez (Tamera), Jocelynn Spencer (Kurt), and John Mark Valdez. 12 Great-grandchildren; Andres, Brandon, Mariah, Julieann, Abygail, Bobby Lee, JR, Mariana, Sabrina, Collin Grey, Cassidy, and Kulynn. And a great-great grandson; Joey Liam. His siblings; Betty Lovato (Francis), Eddie Gabaldon (Angie), Ralph Gabaldon (Connie), Evelyn Ruelas (Felipe), and Manuel Gabaldon (Christina). Along with numerous other relatives and friends that also survive him.

He was preceded in death by a son; Bobby Lee Gabaldon. A grandson; Matthew Mares. His parents; Manuel and Lula Gabaldon. A sister; Shirley Gallegos. A brother; Jimmy Gabaldon. His in-laws; Nick and Mela Baca. A sister-in-law; Patsy Martinez. Brother in laws; Joe “Sammy” Baca, and Vincent Baca.

On Thursday November 16, 2023, at St. Teresa of Avila Catholic Church a viewing will begin at 9:30 am. At 10:30 am a Rosary will be recited then at 11:00 am a Mass will be celebrated by Father John Paul Sauter. Military honors will be rendered by VFW Post #3221 immediately following the Mass. Cremation will follow and inurnment will take place at a later date.

Pallbearers include; Jonathan Quintana, Mark Mares Jr., Andres Herrera, Brandon Baker, Jocelynn Spencer, and Michael Johnson.

Honorary Pallbearers include; all of his grandchildren, great grandchildren, and his great-great grandson.

Cope Memorial Chapel is entrusted with arrangements.