Albert Cata

Albert Raymond Cata Sr. 75, of Ohkay Owingeh, passed into spirit unexpectedly May 11, 2020 in Albuquerque. Born October 15, 1944 to parents Alberto Jose Cata and Bettie Nokusille Cata in Ohkay Owingeh, he followed in the footsteps of a distinguished military family by enlisting in the U.S. Air Force at age 18, serving honorably until his retirement.

After retirement he enjoyed celebrity as Sr National Radio Producer for Santa Fe Public Radio station KSFR and DJ host of weekly radio call-in broadcast, “Native American Radio Live”. As Lightning Stick Productions, he gave live performances as a Native American Storyteller for audiences including Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, passing on his rich oral traditions of childhood stories.

He was preceded in death by his parents; three sisters, two brothers; daughters, Shannon Rae Cata and Cheryle Lynn Maestas. He is survived by daughter, Tamara Cata Lawson of Fishers, Indiana; sons Brian D Cata of Santa Fe, and Albert R Cata, Jr. (Anne Balili) of Reno, Nevada. He is also survived by sister, Margaret Tenorio of San Felipe; brothers Juan Cata (Rachel Zamarron) of Velarde and Al Nokusille-Cata (Pauline) of Ohkay Owingeh.  10 grandchildren plus great-grandchildren, many cousins, nieces and nephews also mourn.

He was buried in Ohkay Owingeh Community Cemetery on May 14, 2020 with military honors in a private family ceremony. He was Covid-19 negative.  Please share your stories and condolences on this, Mr. Cata’s memorial page.