Senobio Esquibel

Senobio “Speedy” Esquibel, 87, passed away at his home near Wagon Mound, NM on January 16, 2025 surrounded by his loving family. He was born on December 9, 1937, to Pedro Esquibel and Bertha Woods at the family ranch south of Wagon Mound, New Mexico.  Speedy lived a life rich and love and laughter. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Pedro and Bertha Esquibel; his in-laws, Carlos and Pearl Wengert; his beloved wife and dance partner of 42 years, Marcella “Marsha Esquibel; his brother, Pete Esquibel Jr.; granddaughter, Alesia Vigil; godson, Carl Duran; and dear cousins, Frank (Judy) Sandlin.

Speedy leaves behind his three cherished children:  Daniel (Celina) Esquibel, Bertha (Ernie) Esquibel, and Sister Edna Pearl Esquibel.  He also leaves a legacy of love through his grandchildren, Karl (Kayla) Esquibel and Amor (Gabriel) Romero; great-grandchildren Karlo, Luciano, and Kehlani Rose; adopted grandchildren, Amber (Joe), Javi, Cali, Joselyn, lliana, Yolanda, Penelope, and Sebastian; alongside numerous nieces and nephews.  

A life-long rancher and one of the last true cowboys of his generation, he ran his own ranch as well as helping run his mother-in-law’s until she passed away.  He was a fierce supporter of his fellow ranchers, always willing to lend a hand.  A proud member of the New Mexico Army National Guard from 1956 to 1965, he demonstrated a commitment to his country and community throughout his life.  He was elected as an officer of the USDA Community ASC Committee for Mora County and served diligently with the Mora-San Miguel Soil and Water Conservation District.  His involvement ensured that the land that he loved was cherished and protected.

His community spirit shown through his involvement in the Wagon Mound Bean Day Association where he helped build the grandstands, the pipe arena and helped behind the bucking chutes for many years.  A natural athlete, he enjoyed competing in rodeos, boxing, basketball and community volleyball.  He served his community as a rural mail route carrier, heavy equipment operator, and school bus driver, always willing to lend a helping hand when needed. A jack-of-all-trades, Speedy, could see a problem and come up with a solution to difficult problems.

Speedy was beloved by his family and friends for his remarkable and infectious sense of humor, dry wit, and playful spirit.  His presence ensured that there was never a dull moment.  He had a unique way of viewing the world, seeing life through and ironic lens that inspired laughter.  His quick comebacks and bright smiles brought joy to those around him.  Though he faced life’s challenges with wit, he was never cruel, and always offered compassion and forgiveness to those he encountered.  He cherished the moments he spent with loved ones and often entertained them with his guitar, sharing music and laughter that created lasting memories.  A special thank you to his nurses, Donna Rodarte, Robin Pilley, and Mary Addie Montoya of Anvoi Hospice for the comfort they provided in his last days.        

Cremation has taken place and services will be held at the Santa Clara Parish in Wagon Mound, NM. The Mass of Christian Burial will be on Saturday, February 8, 2025.  Father Augustine Henderson will celebrate the Mass.  The interment will follow in the Santa Claras Cemetery in Wagon Mound. NM.  

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