Placida Maestas

It is with great sadness that we mourn the loss of Placida J. Maestas. Born April 2, 1946 and passed away on Thursday, December 30, 2021.  Placida was preceded in death by her parents Blas and Barbarita Maestas, sister Rosina Pacheco, brothers Jose Miguel Maestas, Blas Maestas Jr., Gilbert Maestas, Elias Bustos and Manuel Bustos; and father of her children John F. Michler.

Placida will be greatly missed by many. Her smile, along with her rosy red cheeks were contagious and put many of her acquaintances at ease when they were in her presence. Placida’s love for God was eternal, the faith she had was extraordinary and never waned regardless of the circumstances.

Soon after graduation, Placida followed her dreams and moved to the west coast making California her home for nearly twenty years. She carved out her new life seeking employment as an administrative assistant for a government contractor, TRW Inc. now known as Northrop Grumman. During her last few years there, Placida felt the need to return to her roots in the Espanola Valley.  She journeyed home and found the natural comfort of once again living close to her mother, family and friends.

She is survived by her children John Michler (Abby) and Maria Michler, both whom she loved dearly and cherished with all her heart.  Others surviving Placida include her brother Arturo Bustos, granddaughter Logan and grandson Donovan, sister’s-in-law Dora Bustos, Evelyn Bustos and Linda Martinez, a dear cousin who was like a sister to her, Lourdes Valdez, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins and close friends.

A celebration of her life will take place Thursday, January 13 at 9:00 a.m., Mass will follow at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Family Parish in Chimayo and private burial will take place at a later date.

The family has entrusted the care of their loved one to Rivera Family Funeral Home of Espanola. Please visit:  riverafamilyfuneralhome.com to share your condolences, stories, and pictures, as well as updates on services.