Celedonio "Cel" Vigil

“The dust has settled, but the wind still whispers stories”

On Sunday, March 2, 2025, Celedonio “Cel” Vigil, loving father, grandfather and partner entered the kingdom of the Lord at age 82.

He is preceded in death by his father Gaspar, mother Andrellita, sisters: Mary, Gloria, former wife Bertha, and great-grandson Ruben.

Celedonio is survived by his two children: Yvette, Gerald, and his wife Pamela, life partner Lucy; granddaughters: Cynthia, Crystal,  Anna; great-grandchildren: Matthew, Vincent, Gage; great-great-grandchildren: Emma, Baby Ruben, Ava, Izaiah, also several cousins, nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends.

Celedonio was born on August 12, 1942, in Harding County to Gaspar and Andrellita Vigil (Cordova). Celedonio raised his two children, Gerald and Yvette and helped raise and guide his grandchildren.

Celedonio grew up on his family ranch in Mosquero, New Mexico. He placed great value on education and, after a distinguished career in state government, retired with recognition from multiple state agencies for his outstanding contributions. In retirement he enjoyed traveling, tending to his ranch, spending time with his family and friends. To keep memories of the past alive he wrote a memoir for Gerald and Yvette and a booklet, Looking Back with short stories and pictures of his family going back to his grandparents.

“A Cowboy’s last ride is not the end of the trail, but the beginning of a new horizon”

Celedonio's Life Celebration will begin with a Visitation on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, at 1:00pm at Salazar Mortuary located at 400 Third St. SW, 87102. Rosary will be recited at 2:00pm. Service will begin at 2:30pm.