Salvador "Chava" Arvizuo Puentes, 93, a former Bayard, NM resident, now of Rio Rancho, NM entered eternal rest November 26, 2025 at his daughters' residence. He was born March 17, 1932 in Casas Grandes, Chihuahua, Mexico to Heriberto Puentes and Josefa Arvizuo.
Chava was a man who knew no stranger. He married Sara Jimenez in 1952 and they celebrated 67 years of marriage. They raised 5 children in faith and proudly wore a great many school/college colors and jerseys in unconditional support of our sports, activities, grand family gatherings, and many adventures. They continued this support even after their kids were grown and gone. Chava and Sara were a pillar of Christian support to the youth of Grant County and they surrounded themselves in love and lifelong friendships.
The world was brighter and fun with Chava's humor. His quick witted one liner, his infamous porch gatherings, and his red Ford darting around Grant County waving, whistling, and honking. Dad loved his friends and neighbors to his core. The last years were spent with his children and grandchildren, (and nearby casinos). It would be an understatement to say our lives have been greatly enriched because of it.
In his last days he continued to humor the doctors, nurses and all the staff so much that they were bringing "him" flowers at the hospital. That was dad, always wanting to bring a smile or chuckle to everyone. We will carry on dad's humble spirit of love, hard-work, and generosity in his and mom's honor.
Forever cherished. Viva Chava!
He is survived by three sons, Michael Puentes (Priscilla), Patrick Puentes (Rafaela), and Robert Puentes (Denise); two daughters, Lizzy Olney (Sam) and Amy Garcia (Frank); grandchildren and great grandchildren; two brothers, Samuel Puentes and wife Rosemary of Las Cruces, NM; Manuel Puentes of San Clemente, CA; three sisters, Erlinda Portillo of Las Cruces, Lucille Delgado of Bayard, and Lucy Nuanez and husband Anastacio of Las Cruces.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his loving wife Sara (2019); his grandson, Salvador Puentes II; one brother, Alfredo Puentes; three sisters, Emma Eres, Margarita Udero, and Berta Puentes.
Visitation will be Thursday, December 11th from 5-6pm at Terrazas Funeral Chapels with the holy rosary to commence at 6pm with Joel Ponzio reciting. The funeral mass will be celebrated on Friday, December 12th at 9:30am at Our Lady of Fatima Church with Father Martin Okonkwo officiating. Concluding service, the committal will follow at Fort Bayard National Cemetery with full military honors. Pallbearers are Royce Olney, Royce M. Olney, Owen Olney Andrew Lujan, Angelo Lujan, Robert D. Puentes, Ryan Puentes, and Brody Rodriguez. Honorary pallbearer is Angel Guerrero, Chicho Gonzales, Joel Ponzio, Joe Marin, Ralph Delgado, Richard Delgado, Sam Nuanez, and Ricardo Gallardo Brito.
Arrangements are with Terrazas Funeral Chapels "Trusted care for the ones you love" ~ 575-537-0777. To send condolences, visit www.terrazasfuneralchapel.com.
