Epimenio "Eppie" Valerio

Epimenio “Eppie” Valerio, age 98, a resident of Ranchos de Taos, passed away peacefully on March 25, 2026, surrounded by love. Eppie was born on March 24, 1928, to Francisco and Lucia Valerio.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Evangelina “Vangie” Romero; his brother, Cruz Valerio; his beloved wife of 28 years, Isabel Romero Valerio; his son, Robert Valerio; and his daughter, Katie Mares.

Eppie is survived by his daughter, Diana Valerio McMains; his siblings: Florida Pacheco (who died 9 days later), Henry Valerio (Margaret), Aurora Archuleta, Wilfred “Pancho” Valerio (Irene), and Dolores Hughes; His cherished grandchildren; Brian Mares, Eric Mares, Ashley McMains and Zeana McMains.

He was also blessed with great-grandchildren: Valerie Mares, Brian Mares Jr., Jade Mares, Rose Mares, Natalia Mares, and Caleb Mares. In addition, he is survived by numerous nieces and nephews, as well as his special friend of 21 years, Eva Martinez.

Eppie was a blessing to his family from the very beginning. At just 13 years old, after his father suffered an injury, Eppie stepped into a leadership role and helped care for his family. He sacrificed his own education to support them, showing strength, responsibility, and love far beyond his years.

Eppie worked as a sheep herder for his father and family, a role that reflected his resilience, independence, and deep connection to the land. In his early 20s, he was drafted into the United States Army, where he proudly served in the infantry during the Korean War as a point man for his platoon. After his service, he married the love of his life, Isabel, and together they built a life and raised three children.

Eppie spent many years working as a carpenter, laborer, and foreman, contributing to construction projects across Colorado and Northern New Mexico, including Questa, Red River, Angel Fire, Taos, Española, Santa Fe, and Silver City. He took great pride in his work and in providing for his family.

More than anything, Eppie will be remembered as a devoted son, husband, father, and grandfather. He was a hardworking man with a deep faith in God. He didn’t just build structures—he built a legacy of love, strength, and faith that lives on through his family. His life was rooted in his belief in Jesus Christ, which guided him in everything he did.

Gravesite Blessing and Burial to be held on Saturday, April 25, 2026 at 10:30am at La Morada Cemetery (St. Francis Cemetery). 

The family of Epimenio “Eppie” Valerio has entrusted the care of their loved one to the caring staff of DeVargas Funeral Home of Taos. 866-657-4019 www.devargastaos.com