Gerald M. Blea of Los Lunas, NM passed away on October 4, 2022 in Rio Rancho, NM at the age of 61.

Gerald was born in Alamosa, CO to Salomon and Mary Louise Blea on July 29, 1961. He graduated from Antonito High School in 1979. He went on to receive an Associates of Welding Sciences from Mesa State College in Grand Junction, CO.

Gerald had a passion for railroading. This began growing up in Antonito, CO during the final years of the Rio Grande Narrow Gauge. He went on to work for the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad in Chama NM. He worked various positions from the shops to Superintendent of Operations. Amongst his most cherished projects there, was the restoration of Locomotive 463 in 1994.

Gerald welcomed two sons in his time in Chama. He went on to work for Amtrak in Los Angeles, CA as a Locomotive Engineer. He continued his work for Amtrak for 12 years, ultimately returning to Albuquerque, NM.

Gerald had a love of life and believed in living life to the fullest no matter the circumstance. He had a love of photography, fishing, and hunting. He enjoyed many adventures with his wife Lori. His favorite time was spent with his 7 grandchildren and surrounded by family. Throughout his life he made countless friendships and acquaintances, many of which lasted for decades.

Gerald was preceded in death by his parents, and brothers Bobby and Gaspar Blea. He is survived by his wife Lori Radecki of Los Lunas NM; sons Zachariah (Dolores) Blea, and Joshuah (Alyssa) Blea; step-daughters Brandy (Tervardrick) Norris, Brittney LaVigne, and Briana Cervantes; Grandchildren Adyn and Aria Blea, Mabel Blea, Tervardrick Jr. and Kei'Mani Norris, Aubrielle and Robbie Jr. LaVigne;  siblings Amada (Rudy) Martinez, Felipe (Elaine) Blea, Georgia (Bob) Cowan, Helen Beasley, Stella (Denny) Fox, Candi (Oliver) Atencio, Leo Blea, MaryAnn (Scott) Little, John (Rachel) Blea, and Jess (Vicki) Blea. He is also survived by sisters-in-law Sally Blea and Lorie Blea, and countless nieces, nephews, family and friends.

A Rosary will be held on Friday, October 28, 2022 at 7 pm at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Antonito, CO. Mass will be held on Saturday, October 29, 2022 at 10 am also at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. Serving as honorary pallbearers will be his grandchildren.