Joe Arthur Candelaria

Joe Arthur Candelaria 92 affectionately known as, “Arturo” and “Trancito” departed on the morning of July 22, 2022; while held and comforted by his family with love, compassion and heartbreak. He was born in Capulin, CO. and raised in Mogote, CO. to the union of Jose Antonio and Theodora (Gomez) Candelaria who precede him in death along with his precious and only baby boy, Johnny; 7-brothers,  Rafaelito, Jesus, Walter, Henry, Freddie, Philemon, Robert; 5-sisters, Gloria, Bernice, MaryJane, Angelina, Clorinda; Granddaughter Gabrielle Vigil, Great-great grandson Josiah Vigil.

He is survived by his darling wife and dearest friend Perfilia fulfilling 71 years of matrimony; 4-daughters, Irene (Edward) Knecht, Anna Gomez, Corrine Candelaria, Laura (Chris) Perez; 7-Grandchildren, Perfilia (Daniel) Vigil, Veronica (Andrew Gallegos) Knecht, Sharon (Jake Korba) Roberts, Lynn (Jon) Suter, Jessica Gomez, Michael Roberts, Enrique Perez; 14-Great grandchildren, Marivel (Andrew Yslava) Knecht-Salas, Brooke (Jack Ortega) Vigil, Jacobo Vigil, Taylor Suter, Haley Suter, Chaziah Villa, Kiera Gallegos, Aiden Knecht, Lieta Korba, Braden Suter, Constance Korba, Mason Suter, Tristan Korba, Kamylla Rose Gallegos; 9-Great-great grandchildren;  Brayleigh Sisneros, Danielle, Donovan, Lailia, Lyahna, Canelo and James Vigil; Isaiah and Jack Ortega; Siblings, Elijio Candelaria, Alice (Ben Martinez) Candelaria, Marlene (Danny) Candelaria, Valerie (Alfonso) Lopez, Brother-in-laws Joe Pacheco and Bennie Atencio; Sister-in-law, Georgia Candelaria; aunt, Floraida Ramirez; and numerous nieces, nephews, godchildren, and friends.

Joe, a family man of integrity, kindness, diligence, and dedication. He worked as a Ranch Hand in Pueblo County; Mined in Gilman CO, “subcontracted through IMS for the CFI”. Self-employed J&P Phillips 66 and Candelaria Trash Services. Phenomenal, talented mechanic. His understanding of electrical components was remarkable. He had the ability to get any broken motor back up and running. He taught his daughters, son-in-law(s) and anyone willing to learn how to be proficient in the fundamentals of car maintenance. His work was his pride. His favorite pass times were walking the river and casting the fly pole, hiking the mountains and ravines with rifle in tote and bagging it! 

Hanging out in the garage with his son-in-law(s) and friends was his leisure. 

For all those who shared time with him will undoubtedly experience heartache.