It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Robert Ulibarri on Friday, June 26, 2026 at his home in Rio Rancho surrounded by his loving family.

Robert, also known to many as Bobby, was born in Trinidad, Colorado on February 18, 1955 to Viola Flores and Tony Ulibarri. Sadly, his mother passed away and he was raised by his loving paternal grandparents Cirilia and Agapito Romero in Santa Fe, New Mexico alongside his adored aunts Dora, Vangie and Judy, and cousins Joaquin and Raymond, who considered him their brother.

He is preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, brother Bill Ulibarri, aunts and uncles Vangie and George Wells, Priscilla and Cristobal Griego, Rose Medrano, Isabel Navarro, sister-in-law Lucille Salazar and his bonus godmother Margarita Romero.

He is survived by his loving wife Nadine of 27 years, and children Candice Farvour (Dave), Michaela Ulibarri, Robert Ulibarri (Alixandria), Clarissa Ulibarri (Liliana), Marisol Ulibarri (Tino); grandchildren Lily Mitchell (Josh) and son Maximus, Aria, Felicie, Isabella Harding (Aden), Julian, Dominic and TJ.

He is also survived by his sister-aunties Dora Montoya, Judy Larranaga; Joaquin Wheeler (Macie); siblings Jojo Perri (Val), Grace Olaguez (Sebastian), Frank Lucero, David Ulibarri (Ramona), Manuel Ulibarri (Anna), Laurie Ulibarri; sister-in-law Sam Ulibarri; parents-in-law Juaquin and Rose Salazar; sisters-in-law Cathy (Manny), Loretta (Archie) and numerous nieces, nephews and extended family.

Robert started his career with the New Mexico Corrections Department in 1983 working his way through the ranks to Warden. He dedicated 31 years of service combined in both state government and the private sector. His career took him to various parts of the state where he made many life-long friends. He worked hard and believed in the adage, “Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life”.

Robert was a devoted family man who loved deeply. His quick wit, sense of humor, and kindness allowed him to connect easily with many people. He enjoyed cooking, traveling, listening to music, watching football and cheering for his Cowboys. He also enjoyed laboring over his ’79 Pontiac Trans Am with his brother Manuel, wife Nadine and new-found friends.

He shared his love of the outdoors; camping and fishing were a favorite past time. He had a special talent for catching fish, always knowing the exact spot to toss a line. Despite this, he often joked that he couldn’t fish because he spent most of his time fixing or untangling knotted lines or freeing snags from branches. Secretly though, he loved the excitement and joy of watching someone else catch their very first fish, especially children.

For several years, Robert courageously battled with cancer, facing every challenge with remarkable strength, resilience, and determination. Though our hearts are heavy with sorrow, we find comfort in the wonderful memories we shared.

A rosary will be recited at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, July 8th at Our Lady of Sorrows Church in Las Vegas, New Mexico followed by the Funeral Mass at 9:30 a.m. Burial will follow at the Los Vigiles Cemetery with the following serving as pallbearers Roger Benavidez, Valentin Griego, Cris Lucero, Frank Lucero Jr., Jonathan Maestas, Manny Carlos Maestas, Joe Romero and Thomas Wells.

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.