Joe D. Finley, 77, of Raton, New Mexico, departed unexpectedly on Saturday, July 22, 2017. Joe was born on July 17, 1940, in Chadron, Nebraska. After graduating from high school in 1958 he married Sharon Eschenbrenner and to this union had two children. He started working as a deck hand on drilling rigs which would eventually lead to a successful lifetime career in the business that took him to most of the western United States. In 1973, he started his own drilling business and in 1975 moved to Raton, New Mexico, and contracted with Kaiser Steel out on the Vermejo Ranch. In 1985, he married Neda (Sawaya) Grant.
In 2005, after 47 years in the drilling business he retired to spend more time with family and friends. Joe truly had a passion for all animals, especially his beloved dogs and horses. He enjoyed woodworking and his gardening.
Though Joe did not attend church on a regular basis he was a deeply religious man who loved God, Family and his Country. Joe had a large and caring heart, touching the lives of everyone he met. He was known for his kindness and generosity, always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. He will be greatly missed by all.
Joe was proceeded in death by his parents Bill Finley and Helen Toliver. He is survived by his wife of 32 years, Neda Finley, Daughter Debbie (Alan) Soester, Son Brian (Tina) Finley, Grandchildren, Joseph, Aubrey, Chance, Haley, Mazie, Austin, and three great grandchildren. Step sons Zane (Jeanette) Grant, Zachary (Jamie) Grant and their children. Brothers Bill (Kay) Finley, Tom (Mary) Finley, Dean Finley, John (Kerry) Carle, and numerous nieces and nephews.Visitation will be Wednesday July 26th from 5pm to 7pm at the Yaksich-Long Funeral Home. Funeral Services will be held on Thursday July 27th at 10:30am at the First Baptist Church in Raton with Pastor Mark Crotinger officiating, followed by a luncheon.
Arrangements and celebration of love for Joe D. Finely are under the direction of the Yaksich-Long Funeral Home of Raton.
Neda and family so sorry about Joe’s passing . He was such a kind man such a gentleman.prayers to you all.
Roberta Harkness
Neda and family……..our deepest sympathy to you as we remember you in thought and prayer.
May God’s blessings be with you.