Wallace Richard Vaughn

Wallace Richard Vaughn completed his life journey on 3 Feb 2018, when he broke new ground and joined his loved ones who preceded him. Wally's journey started on 8 Feb 1949 in Crescent City, California. Wally lived in the state of Oregon, Midway Island, San Juan Island and Mount Lake Terrace in Washington State before following his parents to Columbus NM in the early 1970's. Soon after, he moved to Las Cruces where he has resided ever since. Wally's love of New Mexico and its people never ceased, he found his permanent home in the Mesilla Valley. His many diverse talents led to many wonderful experiences and friends throughout his life. He loved people and animals which led to many lifelong friendships with both throughout his life. He was always the person who brought warmth and fun to any gathering and had a wonderful personality that everyone loved. His passions were to read, listen to music, garden, make salsa and cook and talk with his friends. In his early years, he worked for the railroad, as a carpenter and bartender. Locally he helped manage the Tortilla Flats Bar and Restaurant and owned Waldo's Peppers and Waldo's Papers. Wally was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by friend and life partner Otha Jane Chandler of Las Cruces, sister Nancy Keller of Libby Montana, niece Michelle Lowe (husband Tony, daughter Kanesha, and son Thomas) of Valparaiso, Indiana, nephew Christopher Keller (wife Kathy Wagner and daughter Alexa) of Camden, Maine, nephew John Keller (wife Celeste) of Milwaukie, Oregon, and numerous friends. His absence is felt by all Wally's family and friends and all those whose lives he touched, however briefly. A service in celebration of his life for family and friends will be held later in the spring, if interested in attending please contact the family at 575-644-0146 or through jimfrost.nm@gmail.com or the following Getz link. If you would like to donate, please contribute in Wally's name to SNAP, Safe Haven or your favorite charity.