Jose Encarnacion Maestas, 85, of Encinal NM, passed away peacefully surrounded by family and laughter on July 23,2023 At Rose Medical Center in Denver, Colorado.

Joe, fondly known as 'Tata' by his younger children, was born In Ocate, NM on August 1, 1937. A fearless young man, He was much beloved by his 11 siblings, and Parents, He loved to roam the valley, and tame wild horses. Joe learned many survival skills and worked around the family farm and at the local nickel and dime store in his early teens. At 17 years old, Joe enlisted in the U.S Navy, he was honorably discharged after an unfortunate injury in the Korean War, and joined civilian life as a Veteran, Marine Technician, Small engine specialist, and general Mr. Fixit. He could fix just about anything he set his mind to, and was affectionately known as Fixit MacGyver by his partner, Theresa.

Joe traveled to many places and had a lifetime of stories to tell. He was a humorous guy and loved to make people laugh. His siblings meant the world to him, he even gave up one of his kidneys to give to his brother Bennie, who lived on for many years afterwards.

Joe loved to fish. His happy place was fishing or boating at the nearest body of water at any given time. He taught most of his children, grandkids, and nephews how to bait a hook and tie knots.

A lifelong Catholic, and Spiritual mentor, Joe Carried his faith with dignity and courage. His Native American ancestry was very sacred to him, and he could often be found praying the rosary, or conducting a sacred ceremony. He adapted to any given situation and loved to teach people.  Joe would almost always help a neighbor in need was a beloved member of the Encinal community where he made many lifelong friends., especially Johnny Boney (Peggy) and Antonio Medina (Deborah). He absolutely loved the strawberry jam that Peggy would make just for him.

Joe worked on his boat until the day he went to the hospital, knowing in his heart that it was his last project as he told special family friend, Valentino Moreno. His work ethic and strength will live on through his family.  Tenaho.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Benjamin and Emma Manuelita West Maestas; brothers, Orlando Maestas, Diego Maestas, and Benjamin Maestas, Jr.; sisters, Rose Wright, Mary Romero, Frances Esquibel, Aurora Vigil and Lydia Romero; son-in-law Steve Heffner; and best friend "Trooper".

He is survived by his loving partner of many years, Theresa Rita Maestas of the family home; children, Randall Maestas (Sue), Robbie Maestas, Ronald Maestas, Bernadette Hartman (Ricky), Mario Montano, Donicia Maestas, Tina Maestas Heffner, Zandar Maestas, and Connie Maestas; sisters, Estella Christie, Irene Maestas Brough, and Gloria Zella Maestas (Nick); numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Viewing will be held Saturday, July 29, 2023 at 8:30am at St. Gertrude Catholic Church in Mora, NM followed by a rosary at 9:30am. Funeral mass will be held immediately after the rosary with Fr. Dale Craig, S.O.L.T. as celebrant.

Burial will follow at the Maestas' Family Cemetery in Encinal, NM with the following serving as Pallbearers; Randy Maestas, Robbie Maestas, Zandar Maestas, Leish Maestas, Edwin Maestas, Jason Esquibel, Isaac Maestas and Tommy Quintana. Honorary Pallbearers will be Joey Maestas and Cameron Maestas.

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