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, Colo., and raised in Mogote, Colo., to the union of Jose Antonio and Theodora (Gomez) Candelaria who preceded him in death along with his precious and only baby boy, Johnny; seven brothers, Rafaelito, Jesus, Walter, Henry, Freddie, Philemon, Robert; five sisters, Gloria, Bernice, MaryJane, Angelina, Clorinda; great-granddaughter, Gabrielle Vigil; great-great-grandson, Josiah Vigil.

He is survived by his darling wife and dearest friend, Perfilia, fulfilling 71 years of matrimony; four daughters, Irene (Edward) Knecht, Anna Gomez, Corrine Candelaria, Laura (Chris) Perez; seven 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; nine great-great-grandchildren, Brayleigh Sisneros, Danielle, Jonovan, Lailia, Lyahna, Canelo and James Vigil, Isaiah and Jack Ortega; siblings, Elijio Candelaria, Alice (Ben Martinez) Candelaria, Marlene (Danny) Candelaria, Valerie (Alfonso) Lopez; brothers-in-law, 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 Colo., “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, sons-in-law and anyone willing to learn how to be proficient in the fundamentals of car maintenance. His work was his pride. His favorite pastimes were walking the river and casting the fly pole, hiking the mountains and ravines with rifle in tow and bagging it. Hanging out in the garage with his sons-in-law and friends was his leisure.

For all those who shared time with him will undoubtedly experience heartache. Rosary, 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 4, 2022. Mass, 10 a.m. Friday, Aug. 5, 2022, both at Holy Family Parish. Internment, Imperial Memorial Gardens.