Karl Escalante

Karl C. Escalante, 76, lifelong resident of Doña Ana entered eternal life Monday, December 12, 2011 at University Medical Center in El Paso, Texas. He was born January 17, 1935 to Luis and Gabriela Cuaron Escalante. "Kail" as he was fondly known to family and friends, was well known throughout Doña Ana County for his knowledge of construction, mechanical, and water well drilling abilities. He was often referred to as one of the last surviving manual water well drillers. Those that he helped in the past still benefit from his original water drilling concepts. Kali also served his country honorably in the United States Army and was a member of the American Legion Post 10, where he served as an officer. He enjoyed being surrounded by family and friends, playing bingo, dominos and poker and was a member of Our Lady of Purification Catholic Church. Those left to mourn his passing include his loving daughter, Dolores Puentes and husband, Al of Las Cruces; brother, Louie Escalante, (Sara) of Doña Ana; grandchildren Carl De La O,(Denise), Melisa Puentes, Aaron Puentes, (Gina), Veronica De La O, (Brian), Al Puentes III, (Ashley); great-grandchildren, Xavier, Delilah and Jasmarie De La O, Adian Puentes, Bryce and Ian Carroll, Carys Ontiveros, Kayden Puentes, and Kyara Saiz. Other survivors include Rita, Linda, and Carl Escalante, and numerous nieces and nephews, along with more than fifteen godchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Ramona G. Escalante in 2005, two brothers, Wilbert and Johnny Escalante, and a great grandson Liam Ramos Puentes. Visitation for Mr. Escalante will begin at 5 PM Sunday, December 18, 2011 in Baca's Chapel of Prayer, 300 E. Boutz Road, where the Prayer Vigil is scheduled for 6 PM. Family and friends will join together to celebrate the Funeral Liturgy at 10 AM, Monday, December 19, 2011 in Our Lady of Purification Catholic Church, 5525 Cristo Rey, in Doña Ana with the Reverend Miguel Macaya, Celebrant. The Rite of Committal and Interment will follow in the Doña Ana Cemetery where he will be laid to rest next to his wife. Military Honors will be accorded by a New Mexico National Guard Honor Guard and the Marine Corps League - El Perro Diablo Detachment. Serving as casket bearers will be Al Puentes, III, Aaron Puentes, Gilbert Escalante, Jaime Escalante, Tommy Gloria, and Larry Marta. Honorary Bearers will be Carl De La O, Joseph Gloria and Andy Rojas. Service arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Baca's Funeral Chapel of Las Cruces. 527-2222 Your exclusive providers for "Veterans and Family Memorial Care." For online condolences logon to www.bacasfuneralchapelslascruces.com