Mel L. Archuleta, Jr., age 61, of Los Lunas, New Mexico passed away Saturday, December 17, 2022 at UNM Hospital in Albuquerque, surrounded by his family. He was born in Espanola, New Mexico and raised in Alameda, New Mexico.  He was full of life and was a wonderful man, husband, brother and friend.

Mel will be greatly missed by all who knew him.  He was involved in the yearly Matanzas of New Mexico and also the car show at the Home Depot where he worked.  Mel especially loved his horses and horse riding with his friends.  He had numerous hobbies that he enjoyed on his past time and he always kept in close contact with his family.

Mel, Jr. is survived by his wife, Elena; his parents, Melisendro Archuleta Sr. and Bernice Archuleta; sister, Vicky Jojola and husband Richard Jojola; brother, Sam Archuleta and wife Pauline Archuleta; brother, Nelson Archuleta; mother-in-law, Dolores Salazar; sisters-in-law, Mary, Martha and husband Ted; brothers-in-law, Peter, Louie and wife Rita, Angel and wife Renee, Andres and wife Rose;  goddaughter, Adrianna Garcia and godson Clint Salazar; as well as many nieces and nephews who loved and will miss him.

Mel was preceded in death by his sister, Darlene Baca; niece, Yvonne Baca; father-in-law, Luis Salazar, and sister-in-law, Lorraine Salazar.

A Rosary will be recited on Thursday, December 29, 2022 at 8:00 a.m. at the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church located at 9502 4th St NW, Albuquerque, NM 87114.  A Mass will follow at 9:00 a.m.  Refreshments will be served at the Parish Hall following the Mass.