Abel G. Flores

Abel G. Flores, born on July 6, 1956, in Corpus Christi, Texas, and a resident of Tijeras, New Mexico, passed away on August 1, 2026. A lifelong learner, he dedicated his life to helping and serving others in both his careers as a paramedic and Spanish language interpreter.

His interest in medicine motivated him to become a certified EMT-Paramedic through the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians. In that capacity, Abel was highly regarded in the EMS community for over 23 years, receiving several honors throughout his career, including the Presbyterian Healthcare Services Leadership Award for his contributions to the Medical Interpreter Program and the Presbyterian Air Ambulance Service Award. In addition to using his lifesaving skills on-the-job in a ground ambulance and air ambulance, there were times when he would come to the aid of the sick and the injured in other settings. In 2009, the American Red Cross Honors Real Heroes organization awarded him the Emergency Medical Personnel of the Year Award for tending to the medical needs of a fellow airline passenger.

In 2011, he transitioned his career to interpreting full time. He was invited to interpret for multiple training programs with the International Law Enforcement Academies, and eventually worked full time as a Judicial Interpreter with the Administrative Office of the Courts in the State of New Mexico, Statewide Language Access program. Abel's legacy is one of compassion and humility, with a lifelong dedication to serving his community and helping those in need.

In addition to his professional endeavors, Abel enjoyed a variety of hobbies that showcased his adventurous spirit. He loved taking family trips that created lasting memories. His talents extended to music, being gifted with the ability to sing and to play ANY instrument he put his hands on, including but not limited to the piano, trumpet, saxophone, Vibraharp, guitar, violin, clarinet, and many more. He was passionate about photography, capturing life's special moments, and his skills as an auto mechanic were well-known among friends and family. He was an avid bicyclist, frequently enjoying rides along Albuquerque's bike paths and even participating in the Santa Fe Century, a challenging 100-mile bike ride.

A devoted family man, Abel is survived by his beloved wife, Rose Flores, and their three daughters: Linda Flores, Aura Swoboda, and Jacqueline Flores; seven grandchildren who brought him immense joy: Nicholas Flores, Mahaya Sanidad, Eligh Sanidad, Ikaia Swoboda, Avery Abel Swoboda, Cecilia Swoboda, and Wesley Swoboda; and beloved family that includes his brother Ramon Flores (Carol), sisters Yolanda Palacios, Leticia Neal (German), and Rebecca Barcenas (Ben). Abel was preceded in death by his parents, Ramon Flores and Alicia Flores.

A memorial service will be held at Albuquerque Heights Seventh-day Adventist Church on August 9, 2026, at 11:00 am. A graveside service will be held on August 10, 2026, at 11:00 am at Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery. Abel will be deeply missed by all who knew him, and his spirit will continue to inspire those who strive to serve and uplift others.