Obituary of Francisquita Gandara

Frances A Apodaca-Gandara 1941- 2022 Frances A Apodaca-Gandara passed away peacefully with her family by her side on 02/24/2022 at the age of 80. She will be lovingly remembered by her family, many friends and Colleagues. Frances was born in Trementina NM, resident of Albuquerque, She was preceded in death by her parents Celedon and Dominga Lovato-Apodaca, Son Stephen Apodaca, Sister Elvira Terwilliger husband Don, Brother Jimmy Apodaca wife Carmen, Brother Clyde Apodaca wife Jonanne, Brother Billy (Bimbo) Cook. She is survived by her husband Tony Gandara, Step Daughter Connie Benton Husband Jerry, Step son Mark Gandara wife Vangie. Including several Nieces and Nephews. She graduated from Robertson High School and went on to receive a degree from Highlands University. Frances kick started a long career and retired as the Director of L.U.L.A.C. In 1996 she met and married her beloved husband Tony Gandara in Albuquerque NM. Her achievements include 1984 M.A.N.A Brandis award for work on the BCPI Council. Albuquerque Youth Task Force a UNM program for minorities entering math, science, engineering. 1985 Member of Job Corps Community Relations Council. 1991 selected to the NHLI class at John F Kennedy School of Government Harvard University. 1991 62nd Annual LULAC woman of the year award. 1991 Annual Human Rights award for her work to pass a House Resolution. Officer of the State Central Committee. Her hobbies include, spending time with her husband watching the Dallas Cowboys, reading true crime novels, tending her green room of plants, and spoiling her beloved dogs Geppetto and Cocoa Puff.