Veronica Valdez

Veronica D. Valdez – 1962-2022 Veronica Darlene Valdez was born in Santa Fe, NM on May 6th, 1962 to loving parents Adolfo and Betty Ann Barela. She was the third of four children including Ronnie, Kathy and John Barela. She spent her childhood summers enjoying the best that Santa Fe offers; going camping, fishing, and swimming at the local pool with her many cherished friends that stayed close to her throughout her life. Veronica was a practical jokester with an infectious laugh. At Santa Fe High School she was very popular and excelled in academics, performed dance, and was a cheerleader.  Veronica moved on to UNM where through her roommate Patt Valdez, happenstance led her to meet and fall in love with Patt’s brother Kenny. On her 26th birthday, Kenny and Veronica were married. They adored each other deeply and had two beautiful children of their own: a daughter Tarrah and son Kevin.  Veronica worked in the fashion industry, which gave her the opportunity to travel and experience the world. She was also passionate about music (especially karaoke and dancing), politics, movies, but most of all - her friends and family. She always had a warm smile and was incredibly generous to everyone she met. Veronica left her positivity and uncompromising love sewn into the fabric of every life she touched. Veronica passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family and friends who had supported her through an extended illness on August 30th. There will be a Rosary at Santa Maria de La Paz at 9:30 AM on September 9th with a funeral mass at 10 AM, and burial at Rosario Cemetery at 11:30 AM.

The family would sincerely like to thank the many friends, family, nurses, and doctors who comforted her through her final days.