William Mcintosh

William Bowie McIntosh, known to many around Santa Fe as “Bill” or simply “Mac,” died Friday, November 5th at the age of 68 after a valiant four-year battle with cancer. During his time on Earth, he lived out his belief that love was the most powerful force in the universe, binding all things and people in it to each other. He thought himself a messenger of that love, and reminded those close to him to do the same, always asking, “Have you made someone smile today?” 

He lived for family above all, and his definition of family extended far beyond his own particular tree. He never met a stranger and would often chit chat ad nauseum with cashiers, waitstaff, security guards, or just about anyone fortunate enough to find themselves in his company. He saw the humanity in everyone and always looked to uplift it, whether over the course of decades-long relationships or seconds-long interactions. He maintained a sense of wonder about the world and was a constant learner – from cars, motorcycles, and engineering to music, gardening, and geology – he was always delving into something that fascinated him, and almost everything did. Beyond being a learner, he was a dreamer, planning and wondering aloud even into his final days what adventure or discovery might still be in store for him and his loved ones.   

A nearly life-long Santa Fean, Bill graduated from Santa Fe High in 1971, and went on to become a welder, metal worker, and fabricator. He married the love of his life and lived to celebrate the 50th anniversary of their first date this past March. As the owner and proprietor of Specialty Welding, he fashioned everything from public infrastructure to decorative gates, and his handiwork is still seen and utilized all over Santa Fe. His expertise also extended to a long career as a welder-pipefitter and inspector for Los Alamos National Labs. 

He is survived by his beloved wife Kathleen Brooks McIntosh; daughters Suzanne McIntosh, Christina Albetta and husband Zack, Rebecca Velasquez and husband Jerome; grandsons Adam and Max Velasquez; mother-in-law Marjorie S. Brooks; devoted brother David McIntosh and wife Lois; sisters Toby Turner and Robin Rohrer; and extended family who loved him dearly.

These words paint only a partial picture of a man so well-loved, a life so well-lived, and a presence so deeply missed. A more complete rendering will take shape at a Celebration of Life, Saturday, November 13 at 10:00 a.m. at the Kiva of Light (Rivera Funeral Home, 417 Rodeo Rd, Santa Fe). Reception to follow at Coyote Cantina (132 W Water St, Santa Fe). In remembrance of Bill’s life, the family asks that any charitable donations be made to Santa Fe’s local Cancer Foundation for New Mexico at cffnm.org.