Tom Irion

1951-2022

Thomas Arthur Irion died suddenly from heart failure at his home in Socorro on Tuesday, July 26, 2022.

He was 70 years old. Tom was born in Utica, N.Y., in 1951, the eldest son of Don and Mable Irion, who preceded him in death.

Tom came to New Mexico in the mid-1970s, where he pursued a career as a television photographer, working for KOB and KOAT in Albuquerque for over a decade. An avid sports fan, Tom spent many years in Denver with KUSA and KMGH, following the Broncos around the country.

He eventually settled in the hometown of his wife of 37 years, Stephanie, with stops in Grand Junction and KNME in Albuquerque along the way. Tom helped run the family business (Capitol Bar) in Socorro for a few years but eventually settled in with New Mexico Tech’s education video production office, retiring in 2012 to pursue his passion full time — still photography.

Tom loved music, and you would often see him at the “Cap” listening to bands, his camera clicking away or jamming with friends. Tom had a unique gift, capturing the New Mexico skies, M Mountain, Rio Grande Bosque and their many splendors with his camera, which, with some unforgettable KNME COLORES! programs, are his lasting legacy.

He touched the hearts of many and will be greatly missed.

Tom is survived by his wife, Stephanie DeBrine; his brother, Don Irion Jr.; sister-in-law Jane of Jupiter, Fla.; sister-in-law Elaine DeBrine Howell and husband Kent; brother-in-law Earl DeBrine and wife Joanna; brother-in-law Peter and husband Ken; and many nephews and nieces.

A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.

El Defensor Chieftain