Tomas E. Rael

Tomas Eduardo Rael, 81, passed away on Thursday, September 13, 2018.

Tomas was the first born on March 17, 1937 to Juan Benito (JB) and Celia Laforett Rael in Questa, NM.

He is preceded in death by his Mother and Father, his sister Stella and her husband Jack Jackson, his brother Leroy Rael, his in-laws Maria and Robert Helm, and his beloved granddaughter Donella Rae Rael Hale Mackmiller.

Tomas is survived by his devoted and loving wife of 58 years, Waltraud; his children Raimund, Scott, Benita and Tommy along with their spouses Jim Shaw and Heidi Rael; his sisters Louise Doran, Bernadette Apodaca, Louella Gomez and Merlyn Sideris and brothers-in-law Bill, Gilbert, Leroy and Mark; his eight grandchildren Celeste, Ryan, Jimmy, Marina, Jared, Colin and Shawn; and his three great grandchildren Tanisha, Ayannah and Durell.

Tomas was the most loyal, gentle and unassuming man, who showed us love by example. He relished his work as a Purchasing Agent for mining companies during his 32-year career, which took his family to many countries in South America. He loved the outdoors where he enjoyed golfing, fishing and hunting (much to his daughter’s dismay). Tomas couldn’t pass up an opportunity to practice his bargaining skills and enjoyed that he could get almost anything below asking price, including deals at any garage sale around town. How he loved his beautiful hometown of Questa! He wanted, more than anything, to spend some time there this past summer. Sadly, his failing health wouldn’t allow for one last visit.

Tomas’ Life Celebration will begin with a Rosary on Wednesday evening, September 19 at 6:30 pm at Baca’s Funeral Chapel, 300 E. Boutz Rd., Las Cruces. Mass will be held on Thursday, September 20 at 9:00 am at Holy Cross Church, 1327 N. Miranda St., Las Cruces. Interment of cremains will follow at 2:00 pm at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens, 5140 W. Picacho Ave. in Las Cruces.

Memorial donations, in lieu of flowers, may be made in Tomas’ name to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, which was one of his favorite charities.