FERNANDO GABRIEL GRIEGO, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, cousin, and friend, entered eternal life the morning of September 11, 2026, in Las Cruces, New Mexico. Fernando was born in Santa Fe, New Mexico, October 6, 1957, to Antonio E. “Tony” and Carmen A. Griego. On December 29, 1984, he married the love of his life, Barbara Martinez-Griego. Together, they built a beautiful life centered on faith, family, and hard work as they raised their three children.

Fernando always said that his greatest honor was being the best father and grandpa he could be to his loving family. He was devoted to his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and to the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church. Fernando was a true family man. He showed his family unconditional love and always made sure to say, "I love you" (more than twice), "Be careful," and "Make sure the doors are locked." He was someone others could always count on, and he never hesitated to help anyone in need.

Fernando enjoyed spending time with his brothers and sister, as well as with his extended family. He loved taking long drives, playing with and mentoring his children and granddaughters, and riding his bike while listening to his iPod. Fernando also cherished his uncles, aunts, and cousins, whom he considered an extension of his immediate family. He shared many stories about growing up in Santa Fe and visiting family in Pojoaque, New Mexico.

After graduating from Santa Fe High School in 1975, Fernando proudly joined the United States Air Force, where he discovered his passion for airplanes and the aerospace industry. He was honorably discharged in 1980. He attended New Mexico State University and earned a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering in 1986. He went on to work for two major aerospace companies: General Dynamics in San Diego, California, for seven years, and The Boeing Company in Seattle, Washington, from which he retired after 28 years of service. Fernando was known as a talented engineer and earned many accolades during his tenure at both companies. Fernando's life was marked by faith, dedication, service, and a passion for aerospace. He leaves a lasting legacy for his family and community. Those left to cherish Fernando's memory include his wife, Barbara Martinez-Griego; his son, Gabriel Anthony Griego of Mukilteo, Washington; his daughters, Anna Cruzita Daniels of Mountlake Terrace, Washington, and Valerie Griego Mahboob and her husband, Marzan, of Katy, Texas; his granddaughters, Faith Angela Daniels of Vancouver, Washington, Chaiomhe Risa Wilson of Stayton, Oregon, and Sana Carmen Marzan of Katy, Texas; and his siblings, Bernando A. Griego of Santa Fe, Veronica L. Viarreal and her husband, Larry, of Santa Fe, Manuel G. Griego and his wife, Chimene, of Albuquerque, Andrew S. Griego and his wife, Diane, of Santa Fe, and Vincent M. Griego and his wife, Shana, of Auburn, California.

Fernando joins in eternal life his parents, Antonio E. Griego and Carmen A. Griego; his father-in-law, Willie S. Martinez; his mother-in-law, Cruzita Martinez; his infant granddaughter, Mallory Elaine Marzan; and his nephew, Nicolas H. Arrieta.

Visitation public viewing will begin at 11 AM followed by the Recitation of the Holy Rosary at 11:30 AM The Funeral Mass will follow immediately thereafter at Cristo Rey Catholic Church, 1147 Cristo Rey Street, in Santa Fe. The Rite of Committal and Interment will take place at the Santa Fe National Cemetery at 2:45 PM. Military Honors will be accorded by the United States Air Force Kirtland Honor Guard.

Serving as Casket bearers will be Gabriel Griego, Luke Griego, Vincent Griego, Andrew Griego, Jerry Baca, Jim Vigil, and Jeremy Zellefrow. His daughters, granddaughters, nieces, and nephews will serve as honorary bearers.

The family extends special thanks to Dr. Ann Mercer and her wonderful staff for the loving care, attention, and support they provided to Fernando and his family throughout the past year as he faced health challenges.

At the families’ request all flowers are to be sent to the Church at the address above. Thank you

Service arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Baca’s Funeral Chapels of Las Cruces, 300 E. Boutz Road, 527-2222. Your exclusive provider for “Veterans and Family Memorial Care.” For online condolences logon to www.bacasfuneralchapelslascruces.com