Adelfa Amparan

Adelfa Amparan, 88, born in Kemp City (now Wichita Falls), Wichita County, Texas, became a resident of Albuquerque with her husband, Francisco, in 1957, and died on Sunday, July 1, 2018 surrounded by her family. She is survived by her children, Erlinda Sedillo and husband Solomon; Edmundo Amparan and wife, Kimberly; Victor Amparan and wife, Sylvia; Victoria Muller; Diana Amparan; Raul Amparan and wife, Linda; Eunice Amparan-Ortega and husband, Albert; David Amparan; and Rosa Martinez and husband, Max; 31 grandchildren; 31 great-grandchildren; 5 great-great grandchildren; and many other family and friends. Adelfa was preceded in death by her husband, Francisco; her parents, Santiago and Ynes Tercero; their eldest son, Javier Francisco Amparan; and their grandson, Carlos Muller.

She was married for 51 years to the love of her life and cared for him from the day they married in 1951, until he took his last breath, in her loving arms, on July 22, 2002.  Throughout her marriage she was a devoted wife and mother, always putting the needs of her family first.   She said the percentages in a marriage are not 50-50, but instead 100-100. They both lived by that, selflessly every day of their marriage and in their commitment to family. She was known for her home cooking, especially her tortillas and chile, made with her own special ingredient – “FITA’S LOVE”.  Although many tried to duplicate her recipes, even with side-by-side lessons, no one could compare.

She was a stay-at-home mom, caring for her ten children and many grandchildren.  To supplement income, she was an Avon Representative and Home Daycare Provider to many. She also worked from home for over 30 years as a Caregiver for children with developmental disabilities. Throughout the years, many of those she previously cared for would still come back to visit her with their families. Fita was loved by all who knew her. She was a true friend who would gladly give one-on-one time and specially cooked meals to help when they were in need.   Fita’s home was welcoming and filled with love. Everyone who entered left feeling nourished in body and spirit.

When her husband’s health declined, she lovingly adapted to his changing needs.  Every day she became his personal nurse; checking his vitals and administering his medicine; giving his children the opportunity to have their father for several more years.

She was a parishioner of Our Lady of the Assumption since 1961 and a member of their Spanish Choir for over 40 years.  She was also an active member of the Legion of Mary for numerous years visiting the prisons, nursing homes, the elderly and many others to pray with them and assist with their daily needs.

She taught her children the importance of faith in God and love for family by her example of humility, gratitude, kindness, generosity and obedience. She practiced stewardship in accordance with the scripture, Romans 12:5-8, by giving of her talents, treasures and time, daily and abundantly with love, never expecting anything in return.

Raising ten children (and assisting with many grandchildren) on a modest income, she managed the finances and the household always ensuring the children’s needs were met. They were well-behaved, neatly dressed and groomed immaculate. As they grew older, she was always there in their times of need, praying by their bedsides when they were ill, or taking the time to listen and have meaningful conversations to provide comfort, advice and wisdom.

Fita was a true servant of Christ.  In preparing to take communion from her daughter, Diana, a Eucharistic Minister, her final word as she took her last breath was “AMEN.” While being held by her youngest son David, in his loving arms, she passed from his embrace to our Heavenly Father’s embrace.

A Rosary will be recited Thursday, July 5, 2018, 6:00 p.m., with viewing before the Rosary, beginning, 5:00 p.m., at Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church, Lomas & Tennessee. A Mass will also be celebrated Friday, July 6, 2018, 1:00 p.m. at Our Lady of the Assumption, with burial to follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery, and reception at the Moose Lodge, 2121 Edith Blvd. NE.