Tomas Rafael Archuleta, of Cerro, NM, formerly of Placitas de Taos, NM was born on March 7, 1929, to Jacobo and Aurelia Archuleta who have preceded him in death. He passed away peacefully with family by his side from heart complications. He is also preceded in death by his daughter, Anna and son, Tommy, brothers, Miguel, Frank, and Jacobo, sisters, Beatrice and Teresa, and Godson, Eli Matthew. He is survived by his loving wife, Ruth, son, Jamie (Renée), and daughter, Joann and extended children who he became a bonus dad to, Felix, Patsy (Lorenzo), Raymond “Nick”, Denise (Edward), and Debbie. He is also survived by his sisters, Maggie and Teddie and brother, Manuel, as well as Rose and Pancho, close family members who he considered as siblings and daughter-in-law, Elva and grandson, Keith. He leaves behind his loving Godchildren, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended brothers and sisters from his marriage to Ruth, numerous nieces and nephews and many friends who he will be missed by.
At an early age, while still attending school in Taos, Tomas worked as a gas attendant at Taos Texaco and Philips 66, both at the same time, leaving from one job to the other. Later, he enlisted in the US Army and served during the Korean War. He returned home and soon began work as a lineman at Kit Carson Electric in Taos and climbed up the corporate ladder to warehouse/supply, and retired as Operations Manager in 1987. Upon retirement, he and Ruth co-owned several restaurants and shops in the Taos, Red River, Costilla, and Cerro areas. He enjoyed the hospitality and service industries, and everyone he came in contact with became his friend.
Tom was a humble, kind, and caring man. He had a love for children and animals which brought much happiness into his life. He enjoyed the simple things, great conversation, laughter, watching westerns and football, casinos, and just hanging out. He will be dearly missed.
A memorial, followed by meal and fellowship to honor his life was held on Friday, November 18, 2022, at 12:00 noon at the Questa VFW.
Honoring Tom’s wishes, a private burial will take place at a later date (TBA).
The family wishes to thank our many loved ones and friends for your comforting support (calls, visits, food, and gifts) during our loss.
