Alfonso Duran was a loving father, family man, and friend, as well as a dedicated community leader and patriot. He had a passion for cars, music, politics, and the art of striking a deal. 

Growing up in Santa Fe, Al worked various jobs from a young age, building lasting friendships along the way. Whether delivering papers or working at a jewelry store on the plaza, his generous spirit was evident early on; he used his first paper route paycheck to buy a pet dog and later bought his mother a set of pearls with his earnings from the jewelry store. As the eldest brother, he was deeply close to his sister, Mae, and always looked out for his younger brother, Carlos. 

When Al was eleven, his parents moved the family to Española so the siblings could attend McCurdy as day students—a decision that shaped the rest of his life. He excelled in sports and took great interest in religion and his other studies at McCurdy. After graduating from Otterbein University, Al formed lifelong connections while serving as a manager for the local telephone company and later as the business manager for Española Public Schools. 

One of these friends introduced him to the "Mama Lucys," the group that helped elect Jerry Apodaca as the first Hispanic Governor of New Mexico. His family, originally from Mora, viewed public service as the primary way to do good in the world and Al found a natural calling in Northern New Mexico politics. As a mobile home dealer, he took pride in helping families achieve homeownership during the era of redlining. He also twice served as Chairman of the Española Chamber of Commerce. In Española, he also met and made friends with the Yogi Bhajan. Al lived his faith by being open to all, helping to bring the Sikh community to Sombrillo at a time when many found them too foreign. 

Al met the love of his life, Arlene, in Española. Together they raised two daughters, Clarissa (deceased) and Danielle. He was a devoted grandfather to Alejandro and Magdalena, who were his absolute pride and joy. Al was a pillar of the Duran and Chavez families, keeping everyone informed and organizing family reunions. 

Known for his open nature and his love for a good story or joke, Al’s dedication to the Española Valley, the State of New Mexico, and the United States was unwavering. He served as an Air Force reservist, and his deep belief in democratic ideals led to lasting friendships with prominent politicians, activists, and historians. He truly loved people, cared for their well-being, and never stopped dreaming of a better society.

Services are pending.

The family of Alfonso Duran has entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the beautiful Espanola Valley.   505-747-7477