Mike J Tafoya

Mike J. Tafoya, on Dec. 2, 2003, was called to be with our Lord. Born in Aguilar, Colo., on May 8, 1924, to the union of Juan Tafoya and Eusebia Sanchez-Tafoya. Mike was raised from the young age of 8 by his paternal grandmother, Flora Ware-Duran. Mike was enrolled into the CC Camps on May 21, 1941, at the age of 17, and was honorably discharged Oct. 10, 1942. He was also discharged as a part of the 725th Anti-Aircraft Artillery Searchlight Battery for his honest and faithful service to his country. Mike was a coal miner in mines throughout Colorado. Mike was also employed by CF&I Steel Mills for 33 years. Preceded in death by his wife of 47 years, Ramona Cruz Tafoya; along with his mother, grandmother, father; daughter, Cynthia; and sisters, Aurora and Rafelita. Survived by his son, Cornelio "Merno" (Debbie) Tafoya; daughter, Marie "Sneezy" (John) Mascarenas and Juliana "Rattlesnake Pete" (Michael) Forte; brothers, John Tafoya, Alfonso (Angie) Tafoya, Greg Tafoya, Fidel (Inez) Tafoya; and 15 siblings of Juan and Sophie Tafoya; grandchildren, Michael "Spike" Mascarenas, Candy Rose "The Baby" Madrill; special grandchildren, Brandy, Trisha and Sharon; special great-grandchildren, Trinity "Kennedy," and Michael. Mike also was the social butterfly and had numerous friends including one very special friend, Thelma J. Ayala. A very special thanks to Dr. Michael Ramos, and our crew at Hospice, Selina "Gorgeous," Karla, Laurie, and Deacon John, "Father John."