Gilbert Eugene Candelaria

Gilbert Eugene Candelaria, 77 of Placitas NM passed peacefully at his home with his family by his side on February 22nd of 2025. He was born on January 15th 1948 in Albuquerque New Mexico to Agueda and Macario Candelaria.

 He is preceded in death by his parents Agueda and Macario Candelaria, Son Gilbert ”Riggie” Candelaria, his brothers Joe, Richard, Leroy, and Jerry, as well as his mother and father in law Ricardo and Gregorita Gutierrez and son in law Oscar Anchondo JR.

 He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Frances “Pancha” Candelaria. His daughters Linda Candelaria and Elicia Anchondo, Grandchildren Carlos, Destiny, Emilio, Josiah, Faith, as well as his great grandson Bentley. His siblings Victor, Karl(Felicia), David(Doris), Delores, Mary, Gloria, Stella(Elaine), Luisa. Several sisters and brothers-in-laws, whom he considered siblings as well as many, many nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly.

 Gilbert was born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, up until he was sent to Vietnam with the U.S Army. This is where he was wounded and received a Purple Heart and many other medals for the time he had served.

 When he returned from Vietnam. He met and married the love of his life Pancha. They had three beautiful children together and raised them happily in Placitas, NM. From there, 5 beautiful grandchildren and 1 great grandchild were created. He was so proud of all of them and absolutely adored his great grandson Bentley. They had a bond nobody could break.

 He will be deeply missed by his family and many others who he blessed with his presence, his kindness, his generosity, his love, as well as his sense of humor.

 Special thanks to Hospice De La Luz. Rosemary, Cheyanne, Rosie, and Roberto.

 Funeral Services will be Monday, March 17th, 2025.  Rosary at 10:00 am and Funeral Mass at 10:30 am at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church in Bernalillo, NM with burial to follow at the Placitas Catholic Cemetery

Arrangements have been entrusted to the compassionate professionals at

Trujillo Family Funeral Home

"Our Family Serving Yours"