Robert Altuna

On September 1, 2011, Robert Altuna entered eternal life. He was born in Valedon, New Mexico on Dec. 20, 1925 to Ceferino and Maria Altuna. Robert served his country in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He began his studies at the University of New Mexico. After marrying the love of his life, Rosa Trejo, he moved to Silver City, New Mexico where he completed his Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education with a minor in Biology at Western New Mexico University in 1952. As an educator, Robert dedicated 35 years of teaching, beginning in Stanley, New Mexico, where he taught high school Spanish, Biology and Physical Education. After moving to Las Cruces, he taught Physical Education at Mesilla Elementary School for 30 years from 1958-1988. He also taught at other various elementary schools including Fairacres, Mesilla Park and Hillrise. He retired from the Las Cruces Public Schools in 1988. During his retirement, it seemed everywhere he went he was approached by his students to share fond memories of class time and summer recreation. Robert was also a sports enthusiast. Outside of the classroom, he coached basketball and baseball in Stanley. He also officiated high school football and basketball. Robert devoted 60 years to his beloved wife with whom he shared seven children. He adored his grandchildren; they were the light of his life. He spent countless hours motivating and supporting his grandchildren and great-grandchildren in various sporting events, academic achievements and other activities. Surviving in addition to his wife, Rosa, are their beloved children, Rosemary Altuna, Robert Altuna, Jr. and wife, Donna; Frances Martinez and husband, Porkey; Roxie Shields and husband, Rick; Melanie Vigil and husband, Enrique; Rhonda Apodaca and husband, Henry; and daughter-in-law, Gail Altuna. They were blessed with 19 grandchildren, Michelle Jensen, Serena Villarreal, Dario Villarreal, David Altuna, Neil Altuna, Roxanne Altuna, Paul Martinez, Stephanie Apodaca, Lori Montoya, Angie Lopez, Britni Sheilds, Taylor Shields, Jason Vigil, Briana Vigil, Derek Apodaca, Cory Altuna, Christy Altuna, Kendra Barbosa and Kelly Birchfield and 16 great-grandchildren. Survivors also include: Sisters Cecilia Altuna, Estella Aldrich, Mary Mora and Irene Altuna; and brother, Ceferino Altuna, Jr. Robert was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Fred Altuna; brothers, Edward, Alfred, Arthur, Louie and Eloy Altuna; and sisters, Olivia Ramirez and Audelina Diaz. Robert, a member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Cathedral, will be fondly remembered by his family, friends, students and colleagues for his sense of humor, unconditional love for the Lord and his family, positive outlook and the passion he had working with children. With his great sense of humor, he was always making someone smile. Grandpa, we will miss your laughter, jokes, magic tricks, waffles and eggnog . . . until we meet again. A visitation will be held Monday, September 5, 2011 from 6:00 -7:00 pm with a prayer vigil to follow at 7:00 pm at Immaculate Heart of Mary. Funeral Mass will be Tuesday, September 6, 2011 at 10:00 am at Immaculate Heart of Mary with Rite of Committal to follow at Masonic Cemetery. PDF Printable Version