Leroy (Verno) Valerio, the son of Joselino and Delfinia (Maestas) Valerio, was born in Trinidad, CO, May 2, 1946 and passed away on Saturday January 13, 2018 in Albuquerque, NM.
Leroy married Carmen Herrera in the Fall of 1967 at Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church in Raton, NM.
Leroy worked in the local coal mines for nearly 20 years; he also worked off and on at Mel-Mar, Plaza Super Market and City Market during mine strikes. In his later years he ventured into truck driving and enjoyed traveling the open road. Leroy was a member of the country western band known as the “Knight Riders” who played at many venues throughout Southern Colorado and Northern New Mexico. He loved playing the drums, whenever there was an opportunity to “jam” there he was keeping the beat. He read the bible daily and shared many scripture readings with everyone he’d meet. He would say “Knowledge, Wisdom and Understanding” was what he gained in reading his bible. He would pray for anyone who was ill or in need of uplifting prayers.
Leroy was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Ben Martinez of Trinidad, CO; father-in-law Joe Herrera; sister-in-law Vicky Ford of Raton, NM.
Leroy is survived by his wife Carmen of 50 years; daughters: Kimberly Valerio-Swope of Pueblo, CO, Kristie (Kerry) Medina of Raton, NM.
Known as “Pompo” to five surviving grandchildren: Rahnetta Valerio, Tyler Swope, Zeb Medina, Sophie Medina, Addison Medina; his great-grandson, Adler Valerio.
Mother-in-law, Margaret Herrera of Raton, NM; sisters-in-law: MaryAnn Martinez, Sarah Roth, Melinda (Phil) Martinez; brother-in-law Chuck (Liz) Herrera
Leroy is also survived by five sisters: Virginia (Lee Gonzales deceased) Gonzales of Trinidad, CO, Eleanor (Mose Gallegos deceased) Gallegos of Pueblo, CO, Tina (John) Barajas of Pueblo, CO, Geraldine (Gilbert Aguilar deceased) Aguilar of Trinidad, CO, and Veronica (Mark) Palmer of Georgia; sister-in-law Phyllis Martinez of Trinidad, CO.
And many, many family members and beloved friends.
A Rosary will be recited at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, January 20, 2018 followed by a Funeral Service at Alderette-Pomeroy Funeral Home, 244 N 1st St, Raton, NM 87740.
To a very old and dear. Friend May God bless