Paul R. Valdez, passed away on April 1, 2022, in Raton, NM. He was born in Trinidad, CO on January 22, 1938, the son of Raymond and Tillie Valdez.
He graduated from Trinidad High School, which eventually led to his career in the grocery business for 52 years. Paul always enjoyed working, at the young age of 8 he started delivering milk door to door. He had other jobs when he was young as well, like delivering newspapers and working for Pavetti’s meat processors in Trinidad.
He enjoyed going to dances, which is where he met his lovely bride to be Gail, and eventually, they married. They shared 55 years together. He began his grocery career in Trinidad at Safeway and then relocated to Raton. Once Safeway closed, he started to work for City Market. He was an assistant manager for the store. He was often mistaken for a part of the Yob family. He worked for many years and was basically part of their family, whom he loved dearly.
He loved talking to people, and never met a stranger. Working outside and going for walks were some things he enjoyed doing. He loved to eat, especially when Gail would make his favorite meals. His all-time favorite pastime was playing card games with great friends and family. Also, you could find him watching wrestling and of course westerns.
He is survived by his children James Valdez and wife Suzanne, son John Paul Valdez, daughter Jennifer Espinoza, and husband Chris, all of Raton. Also, surviving are six grandchildren, Taityn, Joey, Tyleigh, Rihanna Valdez, and Cody and Cade Espinoza. Also, two sisters Joann Summerville and her husband Jim and their children, Louise Neff both of Colorado Springs, and numerous cousins.
Recitation of The Most Holy Rosary will be on May 13th at 11:00 at St. Patrick-St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, recited by Frank Cimino, followed by The Mass of Christian Burial at 11:30 with Father Bill Woytavich as the celebrant. Inurnment will follow at Mt. Calvary cemetery, where he and Gail will once again be side by side.
Arrangements for Paul R. Valdez are under the direction of Alderette Pomeroy Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that a charitable donation be made in his name to Saint Jude Children’s Hospital.
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