Felix Duran

Felix Leroy Duran , a resident of Peñasco passed away peacefully on Monday, November 23, 2020 at the age of 86. He was preceded in death by his father, Margarito Duran; his stepfather, Abran Gonzales; his mother, Cordelia Gonzales; his brother, Raymond Duran and his son-in-law, Chris Gonzalez.

Felix was born in Santa Barbara, NM on April 2, 1934 to Cordelia Rodarte and Margarito Duran.  He was raised in Placitas (Vadito), by his mother Cordelia and stepfather Abran Gonzales.  He attended Peñasco High School, and at the age of seventeen joined the United States Marine Corps.  In 1955 he married his sweetheart Lillian Herrera of Peñasco.  After the military Felix attended Highlands University in Las Vegas, NM, where he received a MA in Spanish and an MS in Educational Administration. He returned to Peñasco as a High School teacher, Principal and Superintendent. After 33 years of service in the school system Felix retired. He continued supporting the community he loved by serving as a school board member and hospital board member for many years.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Lillian; children, Steve (Irene), Raul (Marcy), Leroy (Henrietta), Matilda, Carmen (Clarence), Cristobal (Amy); 13 grandchildren; Micayla, Adam, Desiree, Felix, Noah, Camille, Nicholas, Christopher, Martin, Kayla, Ryan, Estrella, Jazlyn and 12 great-grandchildren; his brother, Billy; sisters, Lillian, Margarita, Ruth, Gloria, and Maryann. He also leaves behind his cousin and best friend, George Maestas of Rodarte and many other friends and relatives.

Felix loved spending time with his family especially his honeyta Lillian. He loved his children dearly; they were his pride and joy.  He enjoyed being outdoors, hunting and fishing the surrounding mountains and streams. He also had a passion for reading. He dedicated his time to the community of Peñasco which he loved. He was a devout catholic and a lifetime member of San Antonio de Padua Parish.

He will always be remembered for the love of his family, his fairness, leadership and the support of education in his community.

Public visitation will begin on Monday, November 30, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. in the Sangre de Cristo Chapel of DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory with a rosary to be recited at 3:00 p.m. Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, December 1, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. at the St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Peñasco. Burial will follow at 11:15 a.m. on Tuesday, December 8, 2020 at the Santa Fe National Cemetery with the following serving as pallbearers, Adam Duran, Felix Gurule, Nicholas Duran, Cristopher Duran, Martin Gabaldon, and Ryan Duran. Honorary Pallbearers: Desiree Gabaldon, Camille Duran, Kayla Gabaldon, and Jazlyn Duran. The family of Felix Leroy Duran have entrusted the care of his loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the Española Valley.