Walter Victor Ashleigh-Phear

Walter “Wally” Victor Ashleigh-Phear, 100, resident of Bosque Farms, passed away on Sunday, August 18, 2019. He was born in Hoshangabad India while his dad was working as a civil engineer for the military. His family moved to New Zealand when he was four years old. At 15 he joined the Royal Navy where he was shipmates with his brother, Arthur. During WWII Wally was transferred to the Royal Air Force. He flew 36 bombing missions before retiring as Flight Lieutenant. While on assignment in San Diego, CA Wally met Ada Caroline Sackett. They kept in touch and she eventually moved to New Zealand where they soon married. After 3 years in New Zealand they moved to Albuquerque to be near her family. Wally and Ada soon started a family of their own. They fostered 12 children over about 15 years and adopted 4 of them; David, James, Maria, and Angie. Wally’s second career was as an adjudicator for the Veteran’s Administration in Albuquerque. He retired from the VA in the early 80’s. Wally loved to garden and truly had a “green thumb”. He also taught his children to fish and they fondly remember the family camping trips. He is survived by his children, David and his wife Barbara, James, Maria, and Angie; grandchildren, Angel Denee Aragon, Julian Victor Ashleigh-Phear, Antoinette Sena, and Andrew Gladu; great-grandson, Adonis Aragon Casias. He was preceded in death by his loving wife, his parents, his brothers, and one sister. Pallbearers will be, David Ashleigh - Phear, James Ashleigh-Phear, Julian Victor Ashleigh-Phear, Antoinette Sena, Andrew Gladu, Angel Denee Aragon, Funeral service will be held on Friday, August 23, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. with viewing starting at 10:00a.m. at Redeemer Lutheran Church, 210 Alvarado Dr SE, Albuquerque, NM 87108. Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Park.