Ciara Amber Barela, 15, of Penasco passed away on August 04, 2011. Ciara was born at 23 weeks and only weighed 12 ounces and regardless of her daily struggles, she always had a bubbly personality. She was loved by everyone she met, she always greeted everyone with her beautiful bright smile and sparkling eyes. She received many awards, recently receiving two gold medals with the Special Olympics. She had a great sense for fashion and loved eating at her favorite places, Pizza Hut and Golden Coral. Thank you to everyone who always brought her favorite, Reese Peanutbutter Cups. She is preceded in death by her brother, Patrick J. Barela, grandparents, Elvia L. Valdez, Herson and Viola Barela, uncles, Derwin and Edwin Valdez, Patrick and Michael Barela. She is survived by her mother, Rita Valdez, father, Boyd Barela, brother, Paul Gonzales, grandfather, Octaviano A. Valdez, nephew and niece, Isaiah and Arielle Gonzales, special nurse who was like a second mother to her, Suzanne Lopez, special caregiver, Theresa Velarde, soul sister, Beth "Kiki" Grimm, special aunt, Nancy Trujillo, numerous aunts and uncles, cousin and friends. Much love and special thank you to Julia and Reymundo Griego for all the special things you did for our daughter and all the special people, too many to mention but you all know who are for all your love and support.
Rosary was recited on August 09, 2011 at San Antonio de Padua Catholic Church in Penasco. Funeral mass was held at the same church on August 10, 2011 with interment following at the Barela Family Cemetery in Rio Lucio.