Estefanita “Stephie” Luján Garduño
Estefanita “Stephie” Garduño, 84, a resident of Santa Fé since 1957, died Friday, February 16, 2018. She was born in Nambé, New Mexico on March 19, 1933. Stephie was preceded in death by her mother, Sinforosa Lujan Garduño; father, Federico Garduño; younger sister, Lorinda J. Garduño Fattah and brother-in-law Majeed H. Fattah. Stephie is survived by her two younger brothers Gilbert Garduño, wife June Martin Garduño and Rey Garduño, wife Ilsa Stromberg Garduño. Nieces; Elaine Fattah, Ann Garduño Carlson, and Kate Garduño King, husband Graham King: Nephews; Karim J. Fattah, wife Holly Long Fattah, Federico Garduño, wife Mindy Fought and Tomás Garduño. She is also survived by 1 grandniece, Margaret King and 8 grandnephews; Lucas Shije and Ava Shije, Adam Herrera and Emma LeBow, Joshua Herrera, Gil Carlson, Joey Carlson, Henry Carlson, Elliot King and Ignacio Garduño.
Stephie worked 25 years for the Santa Fé Police Department in the Police Chief’s Office. In her adult years Stephie served as a member in her beloved Legion of Mary of the Roman Catholic Church. As a young adult Stephie enjoyed traveling, often with friends, to favorite places like New York and throughout Europe.
Stephie was the matriarch of her extended family, always encouraging every hope and dream any family member had. Stephie’s many friends experienced her kindness and enthusiasm, a reason she was so sought out and greeted wherever she went.
A rosary will be recited for Stephie at St. Anne’s Church Monday, February 26th at 7:30 PM. A mass celebrating Stephie’s life will be held at St. Anne’s Church on Tuesday, February 27 at 10 AM followed by ennichement at 11:30AM at Rosario Cemetery. A reception at St. Anne’s parish hall will follow ennichement.
Honorary Pallbearers are Arthur Lujan, Sylvia Salazar, Stella Gomez, Josina Martinez and Christella Aguirre. In lieu of flowers, donations in Stephie’s name may be made in honor of the Legion of Mary to St. Anne’s Church 511 Alicia St, Santa Fe, NM 87501.