Arthur Lee Bustos

(June 5, 1952 - September 20, 2023)

Arthur Lee Bustos, a distinguished figure in the legal community, passed away on September 20, 2023, surrounded by his loved ones. Born on June 5, 1952, he was the son of Felipe and Pablita "Polly" Bustos. He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings Eusebio Bustos, Rosella Segura, and Irene Martinez, as well as by Marcus Bustos (nephew), Mary Bustos (niece), Cathy Lucero (niece), Ralph Martinez (brother-in-law), Johnny Noriega (brother-in-law) Harry Cummings (brother-in-law), and Peyton Rae (granddaughter).

Arthur's legal journey was marked by unwavering dedication. For the past 33 years, he ran the Bustos Law Office in Las Vegas, NM, as a prominent defense attorney. His dedication extended to public service as he worked as a Contract Public Defender with the NM Public Defender Department since 1989. Over his career, Arthur tried thousands of cases as both a defense attorney and prosecutor, representing clients at all levels of state courts.

His legal repertoire covered a wide spectrum, including civil cases, property disputes, contract disputes, personal injury, probate, domestic relations, and more. Arthur was a fighter for the indigent and often took cases on for free to help clients that could not afford to hire an attorney.

Arthur's contributions earned him recognition, having been deemed qualified for nomination to the District Judgeship in the 4th Judicial District on three separate occasions. His commitment to justice extended to representing indigent defendants. He also served as a Respondent Attorney and Guardian Ad Litem contract attorney for the New Mexico Administrative Office of the Courts.

Before his distinguished private practice, Arthur served as the District Attorney for the 4th Judicial District in Las Vegas, NM, from 1983 to 1988. He successfully prosecuted numerous criminal cases, making significant contributions to the legal field.

Arthur's legacy in the legal world was marked by his exceptional career as a District Attorney and Criminal Defense lawyer. He dedicated his life to the pursuit of justice, leaving an indelible mark on the field. His unwavering commitment to upholding the law and defending those in need earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues and clients alike.

Arthur was not only a dedicated attorney but also a passionate collector, with interests as diverse as his career. He loved collecting cars and various treasures, reflecting his curiosity and love for life's wonders.

Arthur's devotion extended far beyond his professional life. For over 30 years, he and his partner Angela Duran created a lifetime of memories, love and commitment to each other. Family was truly the cornerstone of Arthur's existence, and his unwavering love extended to his nine surviving children. Tara Grano (Marc), Amara Aaron (Scott), Vanessa Gonzales (David), Adam Bustos (Kristen), and Rhea Martinez (Adam) were his oldest children that he shared with Theresa Aguilar. Arthur and Angela would then welcome Sebastian Bustos, Arianna Siefert (Justin), Adara Bustos (Cody), and Tristyn Bustos (Noah). As a father, he wore his pride on his sleeve, often declaring that his children were his most treasured accomplishment. Arthur's greatest pride and joy were his 22 grandchildren: Karissa, Marc, Andres, Jaylee, Mateo, Joshua, Mia, Isaac, Nathan, Elijah, Levi, Noah, Donovan, Aliana, Alyssa, Amaris, Emelina, Alia, Sofia, Zachary, Sky, and Julian. Arthur's surviving siblings are Marvin Bustos (Theresa), Manuel Bustos (Betty), Georgetta Cummings, Joann Loera (Greg), Bernadette Edmonson (Alan), Lawrence Bustos (Peggy), and Annamae Herrera (Roy). Arthur's siblings were not just family; they were his partners in adventure. You could often find him working on classic cars or cheering at sporting events with his brothers.  Annamae played a significant role in caring for him, and Georgetta would keep him looking handsome with haircuts. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and lifetime family friends.

Arthur is also survived by his beloved in-laws, Carlos and Priscilla Duran, who embraced him as their own son. Angela's siblings were like Arthur's own brothers and sisters: Connie Romero (Pat), Elizabeth Noriega (Johnny), and Carlos Duran (Jasmine). The warmth and love of the Duran family added immeasurably to Arthur's life. Arthur's love knew no bounds, extending even to our faithful four-legged friends. Lulu, Lei, Roxy, Maisie, and Stormi, with their unwavering loyalty and a constant presence by his side, stood as vigilant protectors, embodying the devotion he inspired in all who knew him.

Beyond his legal career and family life, Arthur was renowned for his philanthropic spirit and unwavering dedication to helping those less fortunate. He had a huge heart and was always ready to give back and support people who had no one else to turn to. Whether it was volunteering his legal expertise or contributing to charitable causes, Arthur left an indelible mark on the community. He believed that making a positive impact on others' lives was one of life's greatest achievements.

Arthur's strength was not just in the courtroom but also in his resilience. He fought relentlessly even when faced with adversity, never giving up on life's challenges. His love for basketball was evident as he would often attend games, armed with popcorn, pickles, Dr. Pepper, and hot dogs - a true sports enthusiast. He enjoyed attending his children's games and grandchildren's games and was very proud of all of them.

While he wished to be remembered as a good lawyer, Arthur's impact extended beyond the legal realm. During his recent hospital visits for his care, he encountered people who recognized him, not just as an attorney but as someone who changed lives.

As his journey on this earth came to an end, Arthur faced it with grace and courage. He told his loved ones that he was not afraid and was ready to enter heaven's gates. He looked forward to walking into heaven, pain-free and healed. He is now rejoicing in the presence of God.

Arthur found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He loved listening to his daughters and family sing, enjoyed karaoke, relished the fiestas, delighted in car shows, and had a knack for discovering hidden gems on Craigslist, especially cars that captured his heart. His love for family was evident during family vacations, with numerous photos capturing his radiant presence. Often asking his family to "take a picture of me" and posing for the moment.

Arthur Lee Bustos leaves behind a legacy of dedication, integrity, and love. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Public viewing services will be held on Friday, September 29th, 2023, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Rogers Mortuary, located at 600 Raynolds Ave, Las Vegas, NM 87701. A Celebration of Life service will follow on Saturday, September 30th, 2023, 12:30 p.m. at Cornerstone Church, located at 2207 7th St. in Las Vegas, with Pastor Daniel Gettemy of Calvary Chapel LV, serving as officiant. Cremation and burial will take place at a later date.

Pallbearers will be Adam Bustos, Sebastian Bustos, Justin Siefert, Andres Grano, Mateo Contreras, Nathan Gonzales, Isaac Aaron and Marvin Bustos. Honorary Pallbearers will be Roy Herrera, Cody Rivera, Carlos Duran Jr., DJ Bustos, Levi Aaron, Noah Aaron, Elijah Gallegos, Donovan Gonzales, Joshua Grano, Julian Gonzales, Marc Grano, David Gonzales, Adam Martinez and Scott Aaron.

Arrangements are entrusted to and under the care of Rogers Mortuary 600 Raynolds Ave Las Vegas, NM 87701 505-425-3511 or 1-800-479-3511.

Please visit our online website www.rogersmortuarynm.com to sign the online register book.