Orlando Peralta

Courtesy Announcement:

Orlando L. "Datto" Peralta December 8, 1941 – May 12, 2026

It is with immense sadness that the Peralta family announces the passing of Orlando L. "Datto" Peralta on May 12, 2026, following a courageous battle with Alzheimer's disease.

Orlando, affectionately known as "Datto," was born on December 8, 1941, in Taos, New Mexico, to Benita G. and Simon L. Peralta. He attended Taos High School, where he graduated in 1960 and lettered in both football and baseball. He went on to attend New Mexico Highlands University, earning Bachelor of Science degrees in Chemistry and Mathematics.

Datto began his career with the New Mexico Highway Department, serving as a project manager for District 5. He dedicated more than 25 years of service to the New Mexico Department of Transportation before entering the private sector, where he continued working for another 16 years. His engineering projects took him throughout the state, and many of the roads New Mexicans travel today were built under his guidance and expertise. There is even a segment of road in northern New Mexico affectionately known as the "Datto Dip." Orlando took great pride in his work and was always willing to lend a helping hand to those around him. One of Datto's greatest passions in life was sports. He loved all sports, but he held a special place in his heart for his Denver Broncos. Ever the sports enthusiast, Datto enjoyed a good game, a good beverage, and a good point spread. He also loved hunting, attending horse races, and was proud to be a racehorse owner.

Above all else, Datto cherished his family. He adored his daughter and grandchildren and treasured every moment spent with them—whether taking them sightseeing, driving cross-country to attend sporting events, or spending days skiing together. Orlando was forever the prankster and jokester. He approached life with optimism, went with the flow, and truly lived life to the fullest. There was never a problem too big that he couldn't find a solution for. Anyone who knew Datto knew he appreciated a good joke, a great sporting event, and an even better meal. He especially loved Aunt Loren's Frito pies, biscochitos, strawberry milkshakes, bananas, and lemon pie.

Datto will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, but his legacy of hard work, laughter, generosity, and devotion to family will live on through his grandchildren.

Orlando was preceded in death by his parents, Benita and Simon Peralta; his brother, Simon E. Peralta; sister-in-law, Marcia Peralta; niece, Loretta Martinez; and nephew, Dennis Peralta. He is survived by his only child, Daniella Peralta (Jermaine Hart); his granddaughters, Taya and Thalia Hart; his grandsons, Zane and Zander Hart; his querida compañera, Roberta Garcia; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who loved him dearly.

The family of Orlando would like to thank all the friends and family who have reached out with prayers and support during this difficult time. We would especially like to thank Maria Esquibel, and Alex Porchas of San Cristobal, Danny Romero of Santa Fe, John Saulnier of Las Vegas, NV, Randy Pacheco of Albuquerque, The Segura Family of Santa Fe, Lorie Gallegos of Albuquerque, ProCare Hospice, and caregivers Jamie R., Maria V., Imelda J., and Caroline S. 

A Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, June 25, 2026, at 9:45 a.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Taos, New Mexico. A celebration of Datto's life will follow the Mass.