Daniel Ross Bustos Sr

January 29, 1942 – March 6, 2026

Daniel R. Bustos, Sr., lovingly known as Dan, passed away on March 6, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of faith, kindness, and unwavering devotion to his family and community. Born on January 29, 1942, and raised in Española Valley, New Mexico, he developed a lifelong love of family, faith, and service.

Dan attended Santa Cruz High School, where he proudly played Crusader basketball, a passion that reflected his teamwork, discipline, and spirited nature. After graduation, Dan attended business school in Albuquerque before being drafted to the Army. Dan served at Caswell Air Force Station/Loring Air Force Base near Van Buren, Maine until 1966. During this time, he met and married Rella Marie Ouellette, his beloved wife of 60 years.

His deep-rooted faith guided him throughout his life. Alongside Rella, Dan was an active and dedicated member of Holy Cross Catholic Church. He faithfully served on the Parish Council, coached youth basketball, and greeted parishioners each Sunday as an usher, always with a warm smile and welcoming heart.

Dan spent many years in the finance world with GMAC in Colorado and Northwestern NM. After returning with his family to Espanola, he was a dedicated Business Manager for Cimino Auto Sales, and then Henry Valencia, Inc. before retiring in 1997.

Dan found joy in life’s simple pleasures—bowling, fishing, cheering on the Lobos, and supporting the Denver Broncos. Above all, he cherished time spent with his family. After retiring, Dan and Rella moved to Tucson, Arizona, where they enjoyed being close to their children and grandchildren, creating treasured memories that will live on for generations.

Dan will be remembered as an incredibly kind and generous servant of God. He gave selflessly, always putting others before himself, and his quiet strength and compassion touched countless lives.

He is survived by his loving wife, Rella; his children, Danny Jr. (Kayleen), Debralee, and Katrina (Dustin); his grandchildren, Jeremy, Garrett, and Desiree (Cody); and his cherished great-granddaughter, Addison. He is also survived by his siblings Olivama, Leroy, Thelma, Gene, and Isabelle, along with many special nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

Dan was preceded in death by his parents, Ezequiel and Josephine Bustos, and his brothers, Gilbert and Phillip.

A Celebration of Life Open House for Dan will be held on Sunday, April 19, 2026 from 3:00-4:30 pm at St. Michael´s School, Tucson, AZ.

A Rosary will be held on Friday, May 1, 2026, at 10:15 a.m., followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Cross Catholic Church, Iglesia de Santa Cruz de la Canada, in Espanola, NM. Burial will take place at 2:30 p.m. at Santa Fe National Cemetery with Military Honors.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice or to the Southern AZ Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association in honor of Daniel’s life and his enduring commitment to kindness.

Dan’s life was a beautiful reflection of love, faith, and service. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.