Berny Saiz Tafoya

Berny Saiz Tafoya passed away in his home in Springerville, Tuesday, December 8, 2020 at the age of 89.  He was born April 9, 1931 in Aragon, New Mexico to Pablo and Onofra Tafoya.             

Berny was a Korean Conflict Army veteran who served his country from 1951 to 1953. After his honorable discharge he returned to Springerville and worked as an equipment operator for the U.S. Forest Service until his retirement in 1993. 

Berny married his beautiful wife, Stella C. Tafoya on November 9, 1963 and they had two children; twins, Joseph Scott Tafoya and Bernadette T. Hinojosa. He was a very strong, loving husband, father, grandfather, Godfather and brother. He loved his family very much and was someone that always helped those in need.

Berny enjoyed working on his cars and playing cards, but most importantly, he loved visiting with family and friends while having a nice cold one. He was quite the proud man. One of his favorite sayings was “When you got it, you got it.”

Berny is survived by his daughter, Bernadette T. (Fermin C.) Hinojosa, grandson, Fermin B. Hinojosa, brothers, Ben Cabrera, Jimmy Cabrera and sisters, Mary Ann Mada, Pauline Tafoya, Gloria Ponce De Leon and Julia Cabrera.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Stella C. Tafoya, son, Joseph Scott Tafoya and brothers, Cruz Tafoya, Vidal Tafoya, Frankie Cabrera, Tom Cabrera, Flora Castillo and Ventura Mata.

A viewing will be held  Monday, December 14, 2020 at 9:00 a.m. at St. Peter's Catholic Church, Springerville, followed by Rosary at 9:30 a.m. and a funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow the funeral Mass at the Springerville Cemetery.

Thanks for the time we had together dad. Now it’s time for you to enjoy your time with Mom and Joe. Until we meet again!