Joe Eloy Maldonado

March 20, 1938 – January 15, 2026

Joe Eloy Maldonado passed away on January 15, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on March 20, 1938, to Christian and Cirilia Maldonado in Pastura, New Mexico, where he was raised.

Joe was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Amelia Maldonado; his son Jake Maldonado; his grandson Jacob Maldonado; his sister Vidalia Gutierrez; his brothers Hermino Maldonado, Benny Maldonado, and Julio Maldonado; and his sisters-in-law Daisey Maldonado and Rose Maldonado.

He is survived by his son Eloy “Randy” Maldonado and his wife Bonnie; granddaughter Felicia Maldonado and her boyfriend Jason Martinez; and his grandson Adan Maldonado and his wife Caroline.

Joe grew up as a sheep herder in Pastura, a passion that stayed with him throughout his life. In 1956, he moved to Albuquerque for work, where he met Amelia Flores in 1957. They married soon after and began building a life together. In 1959, Joe entered the plumbing trade, and in 1972, he and Amelia founded Joe’s Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling, which they proudly operated until 2016.

In 1981, Joe returned to his love for sheep, investing in a flock of 1,000 alongside business partner Tom Chapman, a venture that lasted until 1991. Joe was deeply devoted to his family and cherished the time spent with his grandchildren, Felicia and Adan, creating memories they will forever hold dear. He also took great pride in teaching his son Randy the plumbing trade, working side by side with him on many projects over the years.

Joe was a warm, social, and hardworking man who will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him.

Vaya con Dios…