Octavio “Oscar” “La Chiva” M. Villegas, 83, of Bayard, New Mexico would like to inform everyone that his work here is done and that he received an invitation on Sunday, January 17, 2021 in Johnstown, Colorado surrounded by his family to a baile he couldn’t refuse. The baile includes a reunion with family and friends he has not seen in a long time.

Mr. Villegas was a parishioner of Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Bayard. He was born in Colonia Hidalgo, Nuevo Casas Grandes, Chihuahua to Ventura and Elena Villegas on July 4, 1937. 

Mr. Villegas is the epitome of a hard worker. For 18 years he worked as a uranium and copper miner and driller, and where he honorably was given his nick name, La Chiva. In 1981 he pursued his other passions. He was a Jack of all trades whose creativity and determination enabled him the ability to fix and construct just about anything. He was self-taught construction worker, welder, painter and mechanic. Much of his work can still be seen throughout Grant County in homes and building such as, the Piñon Plaza and Terrazas Funeral Chapels. He was an avid gardener, who most loved sharing the fruits of his labor with others. He loved dancing and never turned down a good time at the Brown Derby. He was very well known for providing aid, shelter, and or work for those experiencing unforeseen difficult circumstance. Always putting others before him and literally gave the shirt off his back and a burrito to anyone in need. He graciously taught anyone who wanted to work and learn his skill set. None the less sarcasm was his first language, and very much a jokester and a traviezo and always there to cheer up others even at his own expense.     

He selflessly always provided for his family, unconditionally loved and adored his grandchildren. He will be missed but never forgotten. 

Mr. Villegas is survived by his wife, Margarita Hernandez Villegas; two daughters, Erica Villegas, Jessica and spouse Alejandro Velasquez; five grandchildren, Yesenia, Alissandro, Yalexa, Alejandro Jr., and Jose; numerous loved nieces and nephews. Mr. Villegas was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers, Eddie Arias, Paulino Villegas, Jesus Villegas and Manuel Villegas, two sisters, Emma Villegas and Ofelia Ramirez.

Visitation will be Wednesday January 27 from 12:30-1:30pm at Our Lady of Fatima Church with the holy rosary being recited by family member Orlando Jimenez to begin at 1:30pm.  The funeral mass will commence at 2pm with Father Martin Okonkwo officiating. Concluding service and interment will follow at Santa Clara Cemetery. Serving as pall bearers will be Alejandro Velasquez, Bobby (Robert) Ramirez, Fernando Villegas, Alissandro Villegas, Alejandro Velasquez Jr, Raul Villanueva, Ventura Villegas, Ernesto Villegas.

Arrangements are with Terrazas Funeral Chapels “Trusted care for the ones you love” ~ 575-537-0777. To send condolences, visit www.terrazasfuneralchapel.com.