Frank Joe Antonucci
( November 21, 1954 – January 16, 2023 )
Frank J. Antonucci, known as “Joe” passed away peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones, he was 68. Joe was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan on November 21, 1954, and spent his adulthood growing up on the shores of Lake Michigan, boating and fishing. He graduated from Ludington High School in 1972. He was a veteran and enlisted in the US Navy holding the rank of FR E1. He was honorably discharged in 1976. After the Navy, Joe moved to Raton to be closer to his mom who relocated there to retire.
He was preceded in death by his father Frank J, Antonucci Sr. in 1964, and his mom Angela (Rea) Antonucci in 2007.
Joe wore many hats in his life he was a master carpenter and was known for his beautiful wood and tile work, He held a contractor’s license with the States of New Mexico and Texas. He was a coal miner working for Kaiser Steel and was a member of UMWA 7949 and worked as a pump man, His nickname was “Wildcat”. Over the years he worked for Craftsman Glass, and he also did maintenance for Raton Public School and Microtel Motel. He worked for 1st Solar installing Solar Panels at the Cimarron facility, His last job was as the maintenance man for Kroger/EG America PBA: Loaf and Jug working there off and on for 7 years.
No matter what job Joe did, he did it with his heart. He was a hard worker, methodical, and took pride in doing a good job; no matter what he did, he loved to fish at Lake Maloya and hike on Philmont Scout Ranch. He created many things with repurposed wood.
Joe survived a 2-week stay in the hospital having suffered renal failure, congestive heart failure and 4 blood clots in the lungs.
Joe possessed a strong constitution and endured much suffering for the past 2 years. In the end, he entered into Hospice Care he make peace with God, himself, and others, and he acknowledged he live a good life and had no regrets.
Joe is survived by numerous cousins and friends and special family Linda and Kayla Payton. Thank you to MCMC-Raton, UC Colorado Medical Center, Colorado Springs, CO., and Anvoi Hospice Care, Robin Pilley for her care and support in his final days. He will be greatly missed, fondly remembered, and never forgotten. RIP JOE
Graveside services with Military Honors will be held on Friday, April 21, 2023, at Mt, Calvary Cemetery, Raton, NM. at 1:30 PM.
Arrangements for Frank Joe Antonucci are under the directions of the Alderette-Pomeroy Funeral Home.
