Miguel Calzada

Beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and brother, Miguel (Mike) Barela Calzada, age 78, of Las Cruces returned to his heavenly home, Sunday, Sept. 21, 2014 in the comfort of his home, surrounded by his loving family.

Mike was born Sept. 18, 1936 in Mesa, Arizona, to Pedro Gonzalez Calzada and Francisca Ramos Barela. He grew up in the Dona Ana area where he attended school. Mike enlisted in the United States Army in 1954 and served his country honorably through the Vietnam War and served overseas in Korea and Germany. On June 21, 1958, Mike took Refugia Hidalgo's hand in marriage at San Albino Catholic Church in Mesilla. Mike continued his career with the U.S. Army until retirement in 1975 as Sergeant First Class. Proud to service his country, Mike displayed great courage, compassion, discipline, and strength towards his country and fellow soldiers. He was a recipient of numerous acts of valor throughout his Army career: Gallantry Cross w/Palm, Silver Star, Ranger Tab, Drill Sgt Badge, Prcht Badge, ARCOM w/Valor Device, 2 Bronze Star Medal w/ OLC, 2 Purple Hearts w/OLC, GCMDL 4th Award, NDSM, CIB, AM, VSM, and VCM. He served as an active member of the VFW post 3242 in Las Cruces. Mike enjoyed hunting, cooking, watching John Wayne movies, spending time with his family, and attending his grandchildren's and great-grandchildren's basketball, baseball, and football games.

Mike is survived by his wife of 56 years, Refugia H. Calzada and children: Mike Jr. and wife Virginia Calzada, Ricardo and wife Debbie Calzada, Teresa and husband Rocky Nevarez, Frank and wife Natalie Calzada, Beatrice and husband Orlando Herrera, Merlinda and husband Steve Manning, John and wife Jessica Calzada, twenty nine grandchildren, thirty five great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters and brothers: Josie Lujan, Micaela and husband Rigoberto Chavez, Patricia and husband Mark Torres, Camilo and wife Kandi Calzada, Edward and Isabel Calzada, and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews. Preceding him in death are his parents, Pedro and Francisca Calzada, son Antonio Calzada, sister Maria Barela, and brother Pablo Calzada.

A Celebration of Life will be held Friday, September 26 at 10:00 AM at Getz Funeral Home in Las Cruces, NM, 1410 E. Bowman Ave, Las Cruces NM 88001
Arrangements are with Getz Funeral Home 1410 E. Bowman Ave, Las Cruces NM 88001. To sign the local online guest book visit www.GetzCares.com

"Come to his aid, O saint of God; Come meet him, angels of the Lord.
May Christ who called you, take you home, and angels lead you to Abraham.
Give him eternal rest, O Lord. May light unending shine on him.
Receive his soul, O holy ones; present him now to God, Most High." –Song of Farewell