In Loving Memory of Esteven Carlos “Steve” Fernandez

After 99 years of an incredibly full life, on October 4, 2024, Estevan “Steve” Carlos Fernandez passed away surrounded by family and loved ones, in Raton, New Mexico.

During his nearly century on earth, Estevan was known by many titles: husband, father, grandpa, great-grandpa, great-great-grandpa, “Paco,” but perhaps his favorite lifelong title was rancher. He spent most of his days on the sprawling land he loved in Palo Blanco, New Mexico, raising cattle and horses. Even well into his 90’s, Estevan would hop onto a 4-wheeler to roam his property and herd cattle. The area became a spot for the annual Funcion for Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church in Palo Blanco, NM for more than 75 years. That event also doubled as a beloved family reunion for his children and grandchildren.

Estevan was born on January 24, 1925, in Palo Blanco, New Mexico. His love for ranching started early. He was raised on his grandfather’s ranch and was in charge of caring for the family’s sheep herd during the summer. Estevan attended high school in Taos, New Mexico, and was drafted into the United States Navy during his senior year.

Active duty in the Navy began on December 13, 1943. Estevan rose to the rank of Seaman 1st Class, serving on NTS San Diego, CASU-7, and U.S.S. Chenango (CVE-28). During his years of service, he received the World War II Victory Medal and the American Area Ribbon. He was honorably discharged in May of 1946. Upon his death, Estevan will receive a Presidential Memorial Certificate signed by the President of the United States.

Following his time in the Navy, Estevan attended college at New Mexico A&M, now known as New Mexico State University, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture in 1951.

While in college, Estevan met and married the love of his life Elsie M. Benavidez in 1949. The couple spent more than 67 years together, raising seven children. His family expanded to include 18 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandson.

From 1960 to 1968 Estevan and Elsie owned and ran the well-known Wagon Wheel bar in Clayton, New Mexico before moving to Farley and then eventually Springer, New Mexico. In 1974, Estevan became a mail carrier, a career he continued for several years. He also served in the American Legion, the Knights of Columbus, and Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and was on the Springer Municipal School Board. He even ran for New Mexico Senate in the 70’s after being encouraged to do so by former U.S. Senator Pete Domenici and former U.S. Representative Manuel Lujan.

While he was very busy, Estevan wasn’t just about business, he was also about having fun. He loved playing washers and proudly displayed a champion trophy in his home. He and his wife were bowlers who participated in leagues over the years. Estevan loved a good meal and people loved feeding him! He was always grateful for everyone who cooked and cared for him after his dearest Elsie passed away.

No matter what Estevan did, or how old he was when he was doing it, he always exuded a youthful energy and enthusiasm. His quick wit and sense of humor brought smiles and laughs to everyone he knew. He was a joy to be around. As a former Navy Seaman, Estevan was very much the anchor of his family and will be truly missed.

Estevan is survived by his children: Rose Marie Esquibel and husband Walter, Samuel E. Fernandez, Catherine Van Dyke, and husband Kym, John Steve Fernandez and wife Dixie, Barbara Madrid and husband Ricky, Betty Segura and husband David, and Rita Palacios and husband Robert.  Estevan was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 67 years, Elsie M. Benavidez, his father Samuel E. Fernandez, his mother Dalfinia Vigil Fernandez, his brothers: Juanito Fernandez, Estevan Fernandez, Alfredo Fernandez, Antonio “Tony” Fernandez and Bonifacio Fernandez, his sisters: Teresita Fernandez, Filia Maestas, Elosia Maestas and Miquelita Tafoya and his grandsons: Stuart Van Dyke and Jonathan Fernandez.

A memorial service for Estevan Fernandez is scheduled for Friday, October 18, 2024, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Springer, New Mexico. Recitation of the Most Holy Rosary will be at 10 a.m. followed by the Mass of Christian burial at 10:30 a.m. Reception following at the Parish Hall. His Burial will be on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, at 1:30 pm at the Santa Fe National Cemetery 501 N. Guadalupe Street, Santa Fe, New Mexico.

Arrangements for Estevan Fernandez are under the direction of Alderette-Pomeroy Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to:

Springer Senior Center

600 Maxwell Ave.

Springer, NM 87747

(575) 483-5900