Paul "Golden" Allen Vigil

Paul "Golden" Allen Vigil, a beloved husband, father, and master carpenter, passed away on December 4, 2025, at the age of 60. Born on June 15, 1965, in Embudo, New Mexico, Paul was a lifelong resident of Arroyo Hondo. He was deeply rooted in the land, culture, and community he called home, where he thrived in the beauty of nature that surrounded him.

Paul's career as a master carpenter showcased his exceptional skill, craftsmanship, and dedication to his work. He took great pride in building and creating with his hands, leaving behind lasting work that reflects his talent and attention to detail. In addition to his carpentry, Paul worked for many years at Taos Ski Valley as a lift operator, where his joyous spirit and outgoing personality left a mark on everyone he met.

Nature was where Paul truly came alive. He found peace and purpose outdoors, taking delight in camping and fishing with family and friends, particularly at Laguna Larga. He cherished hunting trips with his son, Andres, and made many memories during his last hunt with his nephews. Paul had a love for the quiet sounds of nature—mountains, rivers, and the open sky. He also enjoyed riding his Harley motorcycle, sharing thrilling rides with family and friends, and was a proud fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers during his downtime.

Paul was a happy and outgoing man, happiest when surrounded by the great outdoors. His energy was infectious, making it easy for others to feel at ease in his company. He also valued the moments spent with his loved ones. 

Paul is survived by his loving wife, Linda; his treasured cat, Dennis, who was his partner in crime; his sisters, Noberta and Miriam Vigil; and his stepchildren, Jerome (Feliz) and Vanessa (Jaime), aunts, Juana and Maximiana, and Uncle Ben(Maria). He leaves behind a legacy in his grandchildren, Lexi, Dominic, Sophia, Vicente, Dustin, Gabriella, Orion, and Nathan, along with daughter-in-law Shari. Paul was also a proud uncle to numerous nieces and nephews, including Flora, Jacob (Krystal), Jaime, Katrina, Krystal, James, and Fabian(Sonja), and he cherished his great-nieces and nephews, Jayden, Ben, Lilly, Anthony, JJ, Mina, Katalea, George, Bella, Heaven, Gionni, Aaryiah, and Baylee. His godchildren, Ayesha (Alex), Gary (Natalie), Gilberto (Danielle), and Mylee, will forever honor his memory.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Norberto and Mary Vigil, as well as his sons, Vicente and Andres Vigil. His grandparents, Jose and Macedonia Vigil and Apolonio and Josefita Varos, ninos, Jose Dolores Vigil and Raymundo Vigil, his goddaughter, Nicole Martinez, and many family and friends also welcomed him into eternal rest. 

A rosary will be held on December 17, 2025, at Our Lady of Sorrows Arroyo Hondo starting at 7:00 PM. A Mass will be held on December 18, 2025, at 10:00 AM followed by a burial at the Rael Family Cemetery. .

Paul Golden Vigil will be missed dearly. His legacy carries on through those who knew him, and his spirit will continue to inspire countless others to find happiness in the simple pleasures of life, especially the great outdoors he so dearly loved.