Rafael Atencio

Rafael Alejandro Atencio – Age 19, Beloved son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin and friend passed away on March 17, 2008. He was born on April 29, 1988. He was preceded in death by his older brother, Antonio Xavier Atencio; grandparents: Chris E. Sanchez, Sr., Frances T. Atencio and cousin, Anna Marie Atencio. He is survived by his parents: Julie and Ralph Atencio and brother, Gabriel; grandparents: Margie C. Sanchez and Luis L. Atencio; his godparents: Ron and Peggy Trujillo and his uncles and aunts: Chris E. Sanchez, Jr., Victoria S. Sanchez and Trace, Martin R. Sanchez and Francisco M. Sanchez, Lorenzo Atencio, Pedro Atencio and Diane, Dorothy Maestas, Olga Garcia and Eugene, Maria F. Atencio, Chris Atencio and Marcella, Jose Atencio and Alicia and Angela Sanchez and James and numerous cousins, relatives and friends. The outpouring of support from our community is a testament to his short, beautiful life. Rafael was a truly gifted athlete and he loved playing football and running track. He enjoyed spending time with friends and family and made it a point to keep in contact with those he cared about. Rafael was loved and respected by all of the lives he touched. He was kind, gentle, generous and loving. Rafael was a beautiful young man whose beauty radiated from the depths of his being. He is remembered for his wonderful sense of humor, his quick wit and his magnetic personality. Rafael took a genuine interest in those he met. He was an extremely polite, conscientious and considerate young man. Rafael made everyone, young children, his peers and adults feel comfortable, cared about and loved. Public Visitation will be held on Saturday, March 22, 2008 from 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Block-Salazar Mortuary. A rosary will be recited on Sunday, March 23 at 3:00 p.m. at Santa Cruz de la Canada Catholic Church. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday at 11:00 a.m. at the same Church. Interment will take place at Holy Cross Cemetery with the following serving as pallbearers: Chris E. Sanchez, Jr., Christopher S. Sanchez, Damian M. Sanchez, Gregory Naranjo, Tony Perez, Mehedi Van Huttum, Javier Atencio and Andrew Linares. All those he met were touched by his beautiful spirit, his unselfish kindness and the depth of his concern. The most brilliant stars burn brightest, but not for long. The Rivera Family of Block-Salazar Mortuary. Telephone (505) 753-2288 or 1-800-443-4854.