Michael Troy Veronda

Michael Troy Veronda, beloved son, brother and friend to all, passed on September 10, 2015, doing what he loved, being part of humanity and the diverse life of Downtown Albuquerque.

He was born in 1968 in Hayward, California, and lived between Northern California and New Mexico, where he had deep family roots in Albuquerque and Taos.
Michael was a kind, generous and caring person who loved gardening, music and movies. His favorite band was AC/DC and his favorite actors Sylvester Stallone, Jason Statham and Arnold Schwarzenegger, particularly in "The Terminator." He adored his dogs Pepe and Stella, and they adored him. Michael was a sharp dresser with an innate sense of style. He carried himself with distinction. Michael's favorite restaurant was Padilla's Mexican Kitchen in Albuquerque. He dreamed of dinner at Padilla's when in California, and it was among his first stops on visits to New Mexico. Michael's favorite grocery store was Trader Joe's, where the staff knew him and called out a hearty "Hi Michael!" when he walked in. Michael took great pride in the showplace home and garden environments he created with his mother in California and New Mexico. He would make a point of standing outside to greet people who went out of their way to walk past and take pictures of and comment on the stunning landscaping. "Thank you for creating such beauty," they would say. "Thank you," he would respond, over and over. "No, thank YOU!" they replied. Michael's home was named Home of the Month by the Albuquerque Downtown Neighborhood Association and was featured in the Albuquerque Journal. He was a people person who made friends everywhere and was loved by everyone. There was a huge outpouring of love and support from near and far at this difficult time. Most of all, Michael held a deep and abiding devotion to his mother Frankie, for whom he was a true partner in life. He brought joy to her every day and gave meaning to her life.

He will be profoundly missed and forever cherished by the countless family members, friends and acquaintances whose lives he touched. His father, Harold Veronda Sr., and grandmother, Ruby Solomon, preceded Michael in death. He is survived by his mother, Frankie Veronda; aunt, Anna Muller; brother, Harold Veronda Jr.; sister, Wendy Ann Veronda Moitoso; and six nieces and one nephew.

Michael's Life Celebration will begin with a Service on Friday, September 18, 2015 at 5:00 p.m. at Salazar Mortuary located at 400 3rd St. SW, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87102 followed by a Reception in the Salazar Mortuary Event Center.