Robert Parra passed away peacefully in hospice care at Las Cruces Village Nursing and Rehabilitation on Thursday, November 27, 2025 following a significant June 2025 stroke.
Born in Silver City, New Mexico on November 8, 1938, Robert lived on a ranch in the outskirts of central New Mexico until he enlisted in the United States Air Force serving his country at Nouasseur Air Base near Casablanca, Morocco. After his military service, Robert settled in Los Angeles, California, attended Pepperdine University intending to obtain a law degree but ultimately opted for entrepreneurship instead. Robert's natural friendliness, high degree of self-confidence and love of independence allowed him to succeed as an entrepreneur in a variety of endeavors he undertook during his lifetime. At retirement, Robert returned to his native Silver City where he carved out an active life with many friends and acquaintances, particularly at the gym which he thoroughly relished, and resumed his lifetime tradition of entrepreneurship, first with a local restaurant followed by a variety of interesting ventures.
A kind heart, Robert loved children despite not a father himself and enjoyed counseling and helping young people whenever he could particularly assisting and encouraging them in finding a desired path through life. Robert was a loyal, loving and supportive life-long friend to many in California and Silver City, was beloved by them and will be tremendously missed by all.
Robert is survived by a younger sister, Aurora Dora Gonzales, a younger brother, Fred Ray Parra, and a niece and nephew, all California residents as well as by countless friends who loved him dearly.
A Remembrance Gathering will be held at Baca's Funeral Chapel in Silver City on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, from 7 to 8 p.m. and all are invited to attend and share their memories of Robert and his friendship for the benefit and comfort of all. Robert would want us to celebrate his life instead of mourning his loss so please dress accordingly and enjoy the celebratory spirit of the Remembrance Gathering. Robert will be buried at Fort Bayard National Cemetery on Thursday, December 4, 2025 at 11 a.m. with full military honors and all are invited to attend the 30-minute ceremony either by congregating at Baca's not later than 10:15 a.m. to participate in the escorted funeral procession to Fort Bayard or by arriving at the cemetery independently by 10:45 a.m.
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