Alfredo P. Corral

Alfredo P. Corral, 86, a resident of Silver City, N.M., entered eternal rest on Thursday, Jan. 15, 2009, at his residence. He was born July 26, 1922, in Santa Rita, N.M., to Manuel and Tomasita (Padilla) Corral. In accordance with "My Creed," by Dean Alfange, Alfredo Corral did not choose to be a common man. He exercised his right to be uncommon. He sought opportunity to develop whatever talents God gave him - not security. He wanted to take the calculated risk; to dream and to build, to fail and to succeed. He refused to barter incentive for a dole. He preferred the challenges of life to the guaranteed existence; the thrill of fulfillment to the stale calm of utopia. He did not trade freedom for beneficence and he did not cower before any earthly master, nor bend to any threat. It was his heritage to stand erect, proud and unafraid; to think and act as himself, enjoy the benefit of his creations and to face the world boldly and say: "This, with God's help, I have done."
He served in the Marine Corps during World War II. In 1966, he left Kennecott to start his own business, Silver City Welding Supply. He worked hard and was a self- educated man. He prospered until he retired in 1982, and fulfilled his dreams of seeing the world. Mr. Corral served as a member of the board of directors for Ambank from 1998-2003. He was an incorporator for the bank. He was also the original shareholder of Citizens Bank, and was a shareholder of other banks. Mr. Corral was a major shareholder of El Sol Investment Corp., which owned Wheeler Funeral Homes, Curtis Bright and Golden Gates of Truth or Consequences, N.M. He was also a longtime member of Silver City Country Club. He will long be remembered for his unending generosity and sense of humor. He will be greatly missed.
He is survived by his wife, Patricia Corral; his son, Tomas Corral; and daughter, Alicia Corral; his granddaughters, Micayla and Catrina Corral Jeantete; three sisters, Angelina Michael, Erminia Corral and Socorro Venegas; one brother, Samuel Corral; and many beloved nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Ramon and Horacio Corral; and one sister, Julieta Lozano.
Visitation will take place Monday, Jan. 19, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Terrazas Funeral Chapels with the prayer vigil beginning at 7 p.m. with Deacon Bill Holguin reciting the prayer vigil and holy rosary. The funeral liturgy will be Tuesday, Jan. 20, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church with Father Marcos Reyna officiating. The interment will follow at Fort Bayard National Cemetery with full military honors. Pallbearers will be Tommy Ryan, Charles Kelly, Joe Rosales, Nick Chavez, Rick Fernandez, Gilbert Pojorquez and Ernesto Reyes. Honorary pallbearer will be Earl Montoya. Arrangements are with Terrazas Funeral Chapels "Trusted care for the ones you love;" (575) 537-0777. To send condolences, visit www.terrazasfuneralchapel.com.