Joe Atencio

Joe Ray Atencio, 80, passed away on February 14, 2020. Mr. Atencio was born to Primitivo Atencio and Susana Ulibarri, the first born son of 4 siblings, on February 10, 1940 in Las Nutrias, NM. Mr. Atencio spent the majority of his early life in Las Nutrias and attended Tierra Amarilla High School and graduated in 1956. Following graduation Mr. Atencio proudly served our country as a member of the United States Air Force. Upon completion of his service Mr. Atencio enrolled and successfully achieved a Bachelors of Fine Arts with a Major in English and a Minor is Spanish from New Mexico Highlands University in Las Vegas, NM, ultimately achieving a Master’s Degree in Education Administration.

Mr. Atencio was born with a passion for reading and writing and knew from an early age that he wanted to spread this enthusiasm to the communities of Northern New Mexico. Following this passion, Mr. Atencio quickly became a well-respected educator, teaching high school students among multiple institutions across Northern New Mexico. Mr. Atencio’s love for teaching was not confined to the northern communities of New Mexico and his educational influence spread throughout the state and surrounding states. Mr. Atencio also used his education and teaching abilities to fulfill the role of a Superintendent for the Chama Valley School District and ultimately as an Assistant Dean of Northern New Mexico Community College. Later, Mr. Atencio, who raised two special needs sons, dedicated his efforts to further enhancing special education in the Chama Valley School District as the district Special Education Administrator. Finally, upon retirement, Mr. Atencio who believed, “a man’s work is never done” began his role as the GED instructor for the Rio Arriba County Detention Center. All in all, Mr. Atencio undoubtedly enhanced the lives of numerous Northern New Mexican’s and future generations.

Mr. Atencio was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather who took pride in cultivating a love of reading and learning. He found joy in living a lifestyle passed down through generations of northern New Mexicans and indulged in Star Trek and historical studies. Mr. Atencio was survived by his wife Angela; 6 of his children and their families, Melissa and her husband Khin, Maria Raquel and her husband Gary, Ramon, Marcos and his wife Monica, Adan, Andres and his wife Alicia; six grandchildren Matthew, Aminah, Kaylee, Jedediah, Samara, Isaiah and Issac; and one great-grandchild Catalina. He also leaves behind his brothers Orlando and Carlos; and his sister Rosalia; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and loving friends who gave generously of their prayers, care and love in his final days. The rosary will be held at 10 am on February 29th followed by the funeral at San Jose Parish in Los Ojos, NM.