Obituaries (March 6, 2025)

Flora Chavez

1934-2025

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Flora Chavez, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister and aunt, on Feb. 27, 2025. She was 90 years old at the time of her passing.

Flora was a woman whose life was defined by her intense focus, unwavering dedication to her family and her selflessness.

Born on June 29, 1934, in Tajique, N.M., Flora brought joy, laughter and love to all who knew her. As a mother and grandmother, she was a constant presence in the lives of her children and grandchildren, always ready to share a moment, offer a hug or steal away a grandchild for a special adventure. Her love for her family was unmatched, and she nurtured and protected them with a fierce and unbreakable spirit.

A woman of remarkable strength and character, Flora was tough as nails and determined in everything she did. Whether it was tending to her garden (which flourished thanks to her amazing green thumb), continuing the tradition of tamale making with the whole family, or taking long drives to enjoy the simplicity of life, she approached each task with fearlessness and grace.

Flora was a woman of many talents. Self-taught in so many areas, including masonry, sewing, catering, building and entrepreneurship. She had an impeccable sense of humor, a sharp wit and a smile that could light up any room — complete with the most beautiful dimples.

Her love for learning and sharing her knowledge made her an incredible teacher, and she passed on her wisdom to all who were lucky enough to know her.

As much as she was a protector, Flora was also a social butterfly. She loved to be with her friends and family, and her home was always filled with warmth, laughter and music. She loved dancing, her sweet treats, her jewelry and especially the holidays — Christmas being her favorite time of the year.

Her devotion to her faith was central to her life. A devout Catholic, she prayed often, loved Jesus deeply, and found solace in praying her rosary every night. Her generous heart and giving spirit were a source of inspiration to everyone who knew her.

Flora will be deeply missed by her family, who will strive to continue her legacy of love, joy and faith.

Rest in peace, Mom. Your spirit will live on in the hearts of all who loved you.

Pallbearers will be, Charles Salazar, Robert Chavez, Max Salazar, Sal Hernandez, Eli Salazar and Anthony Juan Chavez. Honorary pallbearers are Damien Chavez and Anthony Issac Chavez.

Please sign Flora’s online tribute at romerofuneralhomenm.com. Romero Funeral Home, 609 N. Main St., Belen.

Mark P. Gwinn Jr.

1951-2025

Mark P. Gwinn Jr., 73, of Rio Communities, peacefully passed away on Feb. 22, 2025.

Mark was born on July 1, 1951, to Mark and Violet (Bux) Gwinn, in Belen, N.M. As a young man, Mark enjoyed playing a variety of sports, and was an active Boy Scout, achieving the rank of Eagle Scout. Following his graduation from Belen High School in 1969, he went on to receive degrees in physical education and psychology from Western New Mexico University.

His talent and skill at golf provided an opportunity to attend college on a golf scholarship, where he played all four years.

After college, in 1973, Mark began his career with the Santa Fe Railway, a career he enjoyed and excelled in. While working for the railroad, he met the love of his life, Carolyn (Clover) Johnston. The two wed in 1979, and raised two children, Tina (Johnston) Dziuk and James Johnston.

Mark loved his family, his career and was devoted to both. He was an active father, who coached his son’s Little League team, and always made time for school events.

While working for the railroad, from 1990 to 1992, Mark traveled to Illinois, where he worked with a group of computer programmers to develop a Transportation Support System. The program was the first of its kind for Class I railroads. Throughout his career, Mark received multiple awards and recognition for his work.

In 2007, Mark retired from the BNSF Railway as the superintendent of operations on the Gallup substation in Belen. He chose to retire early to travel with his wife, and care for her as she battled late-stage breast cancer.

Following the loss of his wife, Mark became an organizer for Relay for Life, and also began volunteering in other ways within his community. In May of 2013, Mark was elected as the first mayor of the newly-incorporated city of Rio Communities. Before and during his time as mayor, he spent countless hours working to improve his town.

Mark’s impact on his career, community and his family will not be forgotten. He is greatly missed by those who knew and loved him.

He is preceded in death by his parents, and his wife, Carolyn.

He is survived by his sister, Martina Gwinn; his two children, Tina Dziuk and James Johnston; his grandchildren, Tyler, Alec, Bresia, Brooklyn, Jay and Kaylyn; and three great-grandchildren, Gianna, Kalasia, and Xeneca; and many other extended family members he cherished.

Mark was especially grateful for his father-in-law, Robert Clover, who he enjoyed breakfast with every Sunday on their way to church, prior to his illness.

A memorial service to celebrate Mark’s life will take place at 10 a.m., Tuesday, March 18, at Abundant Life Christian Center in Rio Communities.

Stephen “Steve” Vane Shepherd

1943-2025

Stephen “Steve” Vane Shepherd, of Bosque Farms, died Feb. 25, 2025.

He was born Feb. 3, 1943 in Lima, Ohio. His parents were Helen L. (DOD 1997) and J. Vane Shepherd (DOD 2002).

He attended the Ohio State University, where he graduated in December 1969. He married Shirley Walker on Sept. 2, 1967. He lived in Ohio for 36 years, and Omaha, Neb., for 37 years before moving to Bosque Farms in 2016.

He is survived by his wife, Shirley; two sons, Stephen Andrew “Andy” and wife, Sheri, of Denver, Colo, and Bryan Patrick, of Delray Beach, Fla.; and two grandchildren, Ian and Rylee Shepherd.

Steve was an automobile, airplane and motorcycle enthusiast, being able to operate, maintain and rebuild all of the before mentioned.

Memories may be shared online at Noblin.com. Donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in lieu of flowers.