John W. Saiz

John was born in Las Vegas, NM to Frank and Rita Sanchez Saiz. John the eldest of six kids, was 12 when the family moved to Hutchinson, Ks. John attended Hutchinson High School and played high school football. He enjoyed boxing and participated in the Golden Gloves along with his brothers. After high school John served in the Army National Guard. Shortly after returning from the National Guard, John married Carmen Stone and had four children.

While in Kansas John was employed by Cessna Aircraft, Grain Spouting and Western Foods. In 1968, John enlisted into the Army and completed one tour of duty in Viet Nam. After receiving an honorable discharge John moved to Albuquerque, New Mexico where he held various jobs. In 1975 John and LaRose Saiz welcomed a daughter, Bianca into the world.

John is preceded in death by his parents Frank and Rita Saiz. John is survived by his five children; Robert, John Jr., Michel Smith, Willie all of Wichita, Kansas and Bianca Saiz of Casa Blanca, New Mexico, four brothers; Gilbert of Salina, Ks, Frank of La Habra, Ca., Joseph and wife Elizabeth, Michael and wife Mary Helen and one sister, Maria Saiz-Aranda and husband Sixto, as well as many nieces, nephews and numerous grandchildren.

John enjoyed spending time with friends. In his later years he enjoyed going out to eat at his two favorite spots, Richard’s and Weck’s. We will always remember his favorite dish, green chili chicken enchiladas followed by a slice of lemon meringue pie for dessert. John will be missed, he had a difficult life after serving in Viet Nam, but he was proud to be a Viet Nam veteran.

John will be laid to rest at the Santa Fe National Cemetery. In respect of the COVID precautions John’s memorial service will be held in the near future. Our family would like to give a special thanks to all the nurses and doctors at the Raymond G. Murphy VA Hospital who assisted John during his last hours, especially nurse Amy Wannenwetsch. Also, a special thanks to John’s social worker Tilda Bulanon-Chavez. Thanks to all our friends and family for their prayers and support. Cremation is in the care of the Neptune Society, Albuquerque