On February 9, 2021, Angelina R. Builta, was called to Heaven on her final journey of her remarkable life. Angie, as everyone knew her, grew up on the expansive Rancho San Carlos, now called the Santa Lucia Preserve. At a very young age she was taught to ride and respect horses and all God’s creatures by her father Dario Acevedo. Her impeccable manners, grace, and class were instilled in her by her mother, Sarah.
Angie, an iconic figure in Carmel Valley, was an experienced horsewoman and one of the last “true” cowgirls of her era. She enjoyed roping, trail riding, gathering, branding, and all aspects of the cowboy way, often gathering at neighboring ranches, where she and her husband Ron could always be counted on as “hands” to show up and get the job done. As well, throughout the years, she entered many rodeos and day ropings, healing for Ron or for nieces, nephews, family, and many local cowboys who loved to “turn a steer” for the dark-haired beauty. Tough as nails, at age 17 (in 1955), she was the only girl contestant to enter, ride a steer, and win a ribbon at the Valley Roundup Rodeo, held at the Holman Ranch in Carmel Valley (a picture of the “ride” can be viewed at the Carmel Valley Historical Society). Never wanting to leave the saddle, she continued riding and competing in various events well into her 70’s! Her final win, at 78 years of age, was overall Reserve Grand Champion at the Santa Lucia Preserve Fandango Days 2016. As customary at Fandango, her side kick, dance partner, best friend, love of her life, partner in crime, Builta was the announcer entertaining the guests and sparring with his wife.
Dearly loved and respected by all who knew her, Angie was joyous, fun-loving, had an infectious smile, and lived life to the fullest. She and Ron traveled extensively and enjoyed meeting new people throughout their many travels. But here at home, Angie and Ron often cut-a-rug at their favorite watering hole, the Running Iron, in Carmel Valley, where back in the day, they may have even been spotted dancing on the bar a time or two…she and her dance partner, Ron, were just two months shy of celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary.
Angie had many accomplishments during her lifetime, many of which she did not like to share or boast about. Many knew her humble nature and always wanting to shift the focus to others and their accomplishments, and away from herself. Her children and family were undoubtedly her greatest accomplishments. She had a special loving relationship with each of her five children: Christina, Dario, Cecelia, Cynthia, and Cathina, and a kindred spirit with her beloved grandson, Hank. Words cannot express the loss felt by her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, loved ones and family.
To paraphrase a quote written about her father, Dario, Angie was a true inspiration, and had a wealth of friends. Someone of this caliber knows where they are and where they stand in life, what more can you ask for and what more can one say…she will be truly missed…
A woman of faith, there will be a mass in her honor, Wednesday, August 11th, at 12:00 p.m. at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, in Carmel Valley.
…Happy Birthday Mom, I love you…
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