Pietro Chiello

Pietro Chiello, 93, passed away on November 7, 2025 surrounded by family and his clergy. Pietro was born in Waukesha, WI., on February 26, 1932 to Salvatore and Santina (Buccolo) Chiello.

He was preceded in death by his parents, only sister, Rosalie Seery and grandson Adrian Valdez.

He is survived by his wife Shirley Ann (Love) Chiello, son Pietro Chiello Jr., daughters Mary Anne Valdez, Rebecca (James) Arnett and Santina (Mark) Bennett as well as six grandchildren and seven great grandchildren, and his only sister’s children Samuel and Frances Seery.

After earning a bachelors degree in business from UNM he set off to conquer the world and soon married Shriley Ann Love on October 18, 1958. They started their family and found themselves in the Espanola Valley in 1961 where they have remained since. Most people remember him as the Owner and ever present face at Center Market grocery store in Espanola, New Mexico. He had an iconic voice and throughout all his years of owning Center Market, could be heard on KDCE radio telling the valley all about the items on sale that week. After selling the grocery store and retiring in 1995, Pietro didn’t slow down. He took up woodworking and got such satisfaction in creating furniture, especially his blanket chests. He made no less than two blanket chests each year to donate them to, Holy Cross Church, for the Christmas raffle as well as to the Presbyterian Hospital Auxiliary for the annual Holly Berry Fair. Pietro also made blanket chests for each of his children. In addition he made a baby bed for his great grandchildren to nap in while visiting as well as doll furniture and toys. He left his family, friends and community with many wonderful memories and made an everlasting mark in this world.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to the Cancer Foundation for New Mexico, in Pietro Chiello’s name at CFFNM.org or call 505-522-2376.

Services will take place at Holy Cross Church in Santa Cruz, NM on Tuesday November 18, 2025 with a Rosary at 10:00 am, followed by a Blessed Funeral Mass at 11:00. Internment to follow at Holy Cross Cemetery in El Llano. 

The family of Pietro Chiello has entrusted the care of their loved one to the DeVargas Funeral Home of the Española Valley 505-747-7477.