Ruben Francisco Archuleta

Ruben Francisco Archuleta

December 27, 1929 – October 24, 2025

Ruben Francisco Archuleta, a resident of San Pedro, NM, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, October 24, 2025, surrounded by his family.

Ruben was preceded in death by his son Carlos, grandson Jacob Martinez, parents Antonio and Julianita Archuleta, step-mom Fedelina Maestas Archuleta, siblings Gilbert (Nora), Flossie, Berlina (Marcelino) Quintana, Alejandro, Mela (Manuel) Garcia and Dennis. Father and Mother-in-law Adolfo and Eliza Montoya, Brothers and Sisters-in law Lucia (Stan) Roybal, Rose (Fred) Olivas, Adelina (Bennie) Montano, Margaret (Bill) Caperton, Rubel (Rosina) Montoya, Arturo and Lucas Montoya.

Ruben is survived by his loving wife of 72 years, Virginia Archuleta; daughter Marcella (Chris) Atencio; sons Larry and Orlando (Michelle) Archuleta; grandchildren Franchesca and Christopher Atencio.

Ruben attended El Rito Normal School where he had many good friends and he always looked forward to the reunion. He honorably served his country in the United States Army. He dedicated thirty-three years at LANL with most of his time to cancer research.

Ruben married the love of his life, Virginia Montoya in January of 1953 and they shared 72 years of fun, adventure and companionship: from road trips to Las Vegas, Nevada, lively gatherings with friends and family that sometimes included dancing the night away, weekend picnics at Santa Clara Canyon or simply sitting at home enjoying each other’s company.

Ruben was a devoted family man who supported his children and grandchildren in a variety of activities: from sports and music, to memorable hunting trips with his sons. He even enrolled in his son Carlos’ NNMCC Machine Tool class to keep the program open. Ruben loved traveling to see La Lluvia perform always taking great pride in his son Carlos.

Ruben was a loving, intelligent and patient man who was always there for his friends and family. His deep Catholic faith was inspired by his mother who took him to mass regularly and to the Santo Nino de Atocha Church celebration in Santa Cruz every year.

A Rosary will be recited at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Santa Cruz, NM, on Tuesday, November 11, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. with a Funeral Mass to follow at 11:00 a.m. A burial will take place at a later date.

Honorary Pallbearers: Christopher Atencio, Jose Atencio, William Caperton y Montoya, Leroy Garcia, Tony Marquez, Arturo Montano, David Olivas, and John Michael Roybal

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the Ambercare Hospice Team and all who compassionately cared for Ruben.

The family of Ruben Archuleta has entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the beautiful Espanola Valley.   505-747-7477