We are truly blessed to have had this wonderful loving man in our lives, Panfilo L. Dueñez Jr., 78, lifelong resident of Anthony left his dwelling place on earth and entered eternal life to be with his heavenly Father on Saturday, December 14, 2013 at Las Palmas Medical Center in El Paso, Texas. He was born May 1, 1935 in Smelter Town, Texas to Panfilo and Josefa Lopez Dueñez. Panfilo Jr. served his country honorably in the United States Navy and was an Electrician by trade. He was a communicant at St. Anthony Catholic Church and a member of the American Legion. Those left to mourn his passing include his loving wife, Elva B. Dueñez of the family home; a stepson, James Cadena of Chandler, Arizona; a stepdaughter, Valerie Medina and husband Bobby of Anthony. Other survivors include a special nephew, Pee Wee Sanchez of Anthony; four step-grandchildren, Ashley and Michael Medina, James Jr. and Gabrielle Cadena. He was preceded in death by his parents and son, David Dueñez. Visitation for Mr. Dueñez will begin at 9 AM Friday, December 20, 2013 in St. Anthony Catholic Church, 224 Lincoln Avenue where the Prayer Vigil is scheduled for 10 AM. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated immediately thereafter with the Reverend Andres Alava, Celebrant. The Rite of Committal and Interment will follow in the Anthony Cemetery with military honors accorded by a United States Navy Honor Guard and the Marine Corps League – El Perro Diablo Detachment. Serving as casket bearers will be Mike and Bobby Medina, Ramiro Bustillos, Pee Wee Sanchez, Robert Murillo and Manny Garcia. Honorary bearers will be Tata Ballesteros, Sammy Perez, Jesus Jaquez, Benjamin Jaquez, Manuel Ybarra, Hector Gamboa, Agustin Rodriguez, Chonito Muñoz, Victor Moralez, Nacho Hernandez, Chevo Sanches, Manuel Moralez and David Ramirez.

Published in Las Cruces Sun-News on Dec. 19, 2013