Raymundo O. Padilla (Stork), 75, a resident of Silver City, NM, entered eternal rest on Wednesday, April 10, 2024 at Silver City Care Center in Silver City, NM.  Stork was born March 1, 1949 in Lordsburg, NM to Raymundo and Tomasa Padilla.

He was preceded in death by his parents Raymundo and Tomasa Padilla and his canine friend, Sparky.  He is survived by his sisters Angelina Gonzales and Esther Valenzuela of Lordsburg, NM; his nephews, nieces and many great nieces and nephews who loved him very much and dreaded the claw!

Stork went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts with a minor in History from Western New Mexico University (WNMU). During his time at WNMU he was a member of Movimiento Estudiantil Chicano de Atzlan a.k.a. MEChA and Outbound. Stork was an avid artist and educator.  He enjoyed creating art with pencil and charcoal.  He had a passion for education, especially history and shared this passion with the youth of Grants, NM and the Cobre School District. He encouraged his students to pursue their dreams.

Visitations will be held on Friday, April 26, 2024 from 9:30 am to 10:00 am at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church 416 E 2nd St. Lordsburg, NM with the Holy Rosary commencing at 10:00 am, recited by Esther Valenzuela.  The Funeral Mass will follow at 10:30 am with Father Jude Okwonko officiating.  The inurnment will be on Saturday, May 4, 2024 at 10:00 am at Shakespeare Cemetery.  Pallbearers are Pete Valenzuela, Austin Cole, Jimmy Gonzales, Jaime Gonzalez, Theodoro Castillo and Tommy Gandara.  Honorary Pallbearers are Rudy Ornelas, Brad Triplehorn and Bobby A. Martinez.

Cremation will take place at Terrazas Crematory.  Arrangements are with Terrazas Funeral Chapels and Crematory “Trust care for the ones you love” ~ 575-537-0777.  To send condolences, visit www.terrazasfuneralchapel.com .