Victor Emmanuel Rubalcaba

Victor grew up in Globe, the descendant of Mexican immigrants there to work the copper mines and railroads. During his years at Globe High School, he was active in all things musical. Victor graduated from Arizona State College majoring in vocal and instrumental music. At a dance in downtown Phoenix, Vic met Patricia Smith on vacation from Iowa. Next came a stint in the military where he was assigned to the 4^th Army Band at Fort Sam Houston, Texas. His division was a travelling marching and dance band. Vic and Pat were married there in San Antonio, eventually relocating to Chandler, Arizona.

Victor became a music teacher at Williams Air Force Base for 4 years. He was recruited by Springerville Elementary in 1963 to start their first band and teach 5th grade. He later took over the music program at Round Valley High School. During these years he formed a marching band and staged concerts and plays. One year the town parade included John Wayne as Grand Marshall. As the family grew, they relocated back to Chandler. Vic began twelve years teaching on the Pima reservation in Sacaton. He also served in the Arizona Army National Guard, playing with the 108th Band for nineteen years. He retired as staff Sergeant in 1995.

Following his career in education, Vic worked with the elderly as an Activity Coordinator for twelve years. After retirement Pat and Vic returned to Springerville where they started and managed the St. Vincent de Paul thrift store.

Vic and Pat raised 8 children, Joseph, Mark, Julie, Chris, Anthony, Steven, John and Marianne.