Richard Thomas Bustamante

1962-2022

Richard Thomas Bustamante, beloved father, brother, son and friend, passed on to heaven on Wednesday morning February 16, 2022.He was 59 years old. Richard was born in Socorro, New Mexico on June 7, 1962, to Alberto Bustamante and Concepcion Alvarez Bustamante.

After graduating from Socorro High School in 1980, he joined the US Army National Guard. He was honorably discharged after serving his country for six years.

During his lifetime, Richard gained valuable knowledge in farming and ranching while working with his father, with other area farmers and ranchers, and on his own. This experience helped him to serve the public to the best of his ability during the 24 years he worked for the Socorro County Assessor’s Office as Chief Appraiser and as Chief Deputy Appraiser his final 4 years.

Richard enjoyed many outdoor activities especially those involving hunting and fishing with his close friends and family members. Anyone who truly knew him, knew that he had a big heart and was very generous with his time and his friendship. He was proud to serve as a volunteer firefighter with the Midway Fire District, he volunteered for church ministries, and could always be counted on to help support the needs of Polvadera’s San Lorenzo Catholic Church and the community it served.

Family and friends can take comfort in knowing that he is now at peace.

Richard is survived by his daughter, Gabrielle Bustamante, mother Concepcion Bustamante, sisters Rose Armijo and husband Rey of Peoria, Ariz. and Pamela Bustamante Long of Johnstown, Colo.; brothers Louis Bustamante and wife Denise of Mead, Colo., Albert Bustamante of Pittsburgh, Pa., and Eugene Bustamante of Polvadera, N.M; and many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins. Richard was preceded in death by his father, Alberto Bustamante, and brother, Victor Bustamante.

A Rosary and Mass are scheduled on Friday, February 25, 2022, at 10 a.m. at the San Lorenzo Catholic Church in Polvadera, N.M. Burial will follow at the San Lorenzo Catholic Cemetery. To view information or leave a condolence, please visit www.danielsfuneral.com Richard’s care has been entrusted to Daniels Family Funeral Services, 309 Garfield Street, Socorro, N.M.

El Defensor Chieftain