It is with great sadness that the family of Joe C. Gamboa, age 81, announce his passing July 14, 2024, after a lengthy illness at home surrounded by his loving family.

Joe was born in Auburn, Ca. to Jose P. and Eloisa Carmona Gamboa. His family later moved to Las Cruces, NM. He graduated from Las Cruces High School in 1961. Joe was an avid lover of music and loved playing his guitar and singing. He entered the Army in 1963 and continued his military services in the Army National Guard retiring after 22 years of service. During this time, he worked for NASA Space Center for various contractors and the City of Las Cruces Utilities where he retired. His hobbies and interest started with a love of cars. He had a 57' chevy drag race car "it bears repeating". He later opened a fabrication shop "Gamboa's Custom Van Shop" with his brother Gilbert Gamboa. He later became president of the Las Cruces Free Spirit Van Club with his Hamm's bear van and then a member of the Las Cruces Rod Runners car club with his beloved 55' chevy bel air. He picked up the game of golf and was hooked! He later became a golf marshal at Red Hawk golf course. He was a proud member of the Elks and Moose lodges, and a life member of the V.F.W. #3242 auxiliary.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years Alice Mae Gamboa, three sons, Chris (Denise), Gabe (Cynthia), Paul (Angel). Grandchildren David & Dylan, Keriana & Santiago, Dario & Diego Gamboa. His great-grandchild Sarai Jolee Gamboa. His "Adopted "son Steve Ascarate (Aurora), daughter Erika. As well as many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Joe and Eloisa Gamboa, maternal grandfather Ramon Carmona, brother Gilbert Gamboa.

Casket bearers will be Mr. Gamboa's grandchildren.

A visitation for Joe will be at 9am, Thursday, August 1, 2024, at Holy Cross Catholic Church, 1327 North Miranda Street. A prayer vigil will begin at 10am with a funeral mass to follow. Joe will be laid to rest at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens, 5140 West Picacho Avenue.

Service arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Baca's Funeral Chapel and Sunset Crematory, 527-2222. Your exclusive provider for "Veterans and Family Memorial Care." For online condolences logon to www.bacasfuneralchapelslascruces.com