This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: marcenath Surnames: Abalos, Gamboa Classification: obituary Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/localities.northam.usa.states.newmexico.counties.donaana/4751/mb.ashx Message Board Post: Santiago G. Abalos ("Jimmy" or "Chopper"), age 57, of Las Cruces, NM, died Saturday, September 18, 2010. He was born April 17, 1953 in Las Cruces, NM, to Frank and Josefina Gamboa Abalos. A strong contributor to the community, admired by many, with an uncountable number of friends, he sponsored nine area little league teams. Jimmy himself was inducted in the USSSA Hall of Fame in 2003. His adult softball team, the Rhinos, was inducted in 2009. Chopper is loved for his calm demeanor and never fading sense of humor. A successful business owner, Jimmy believed in Scott Alexander's theory of Rhinoceros Success and lived it. He had a philosophy of determination and ability to achieve. He is survived by his wife Tracy of 22 years; two daughters, Corina Baldwin of New York City and Meghan Abalos of San Antonio; a son Justin and granddaughter Brook-Lynn Abalos, of Greeley, CO; his brother, Frank and sister, Rosalia Abalos; and many nieces and nephews. A private viewing will be held in accordance with Jimmy's wishes. All may attend the funeral liturgy at St. Genevieve's Church on Wednesday, September 22. A Rosary will begin at 10 a.m. and mass will begin at 11 a.m. A luncheon in celebration of Jimmy's life will be held immediately following the services at St. Genevieve's Parish hall. In lieu of flowers, donations in Jimmy's honor can be made to Rhino Sports Club at any Citizen's Bank location or to the American Heart Association . Arrangements are with La Paz-Graham's Funeral Home. Published in Las Cruces Sun-News on September 21, 2010 Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.