Kathryn Holguin

Kathryn Holguin

Kathryn Marie Holguin (Kathy, Grandma Kata) passed away suddenly on Saturday November 14, 2020. She is survived by her husband Luis; daughter Elvira Benavidez; grandchildren Elias and Trinity Benavidez; and niece Stephanie Mason. She also leaves behind many aunts, uncles, cousins, godchildren and friends who will miss her fun-loving and caring nature.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Rafael (Ralph) and Pauline Maldonado, and brother Leo Rey (Joey).

Kathy was born on February 29, 1960, a “leap-year baby”, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. For over two decades, Kathy spent her career working for the U.S. Postal Service where she took pride in her profession and made many life-long friendships.  In 1984, Kathy married the love of her life, Luis, and they spent 36 years together raising and caring for their family. She was a wonderful and loving wife, mother and grandmother and was happiest when surrounded by her loved ones, especially her grandchildren whom she adored. She loved to read, socialized on Facebook, and played word games with her friends and family. Most of all, she loved to cook and bring together family and friends for celebrations. She was known for her “world-famous” tacos and posole and during the holidays, her kitchen table would turn into a tamale and biscochito factory. While the family stretched far and wide, Kathy was regarded as the cornerstone to the many branches of the family.

Pallbearers are: Elias Benavidez, Christopher (Chris) Maldonado, Greg Gurule, Paul Maldonado, Estevan Vargas, and Marisa Vargas. Honorary Pallbearers are: Patrick and Marcus Maldonado and Stanley Vargas.

Services will follow public health directives regarding COVID-19, social distancing and masks will be enforced. A rosary will be held Friday, December 11th at 12 p.m. at Strong-Thorne Mortuary 1100 Cole Ave SE, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87106. A viewing will follow after the rosary but only 5 people at a time will be allowed in the Chapel while others wait in their cars; funeral home personnel will coordinate. Burial will occur at Mount Calvary Cemetery, which is located at 1900 Edith Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87102. Only five people will be allowed at the gravesite at a time; again, funeral home personnel will coordinate.

For virtual service information, please visit the following link to participate: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/kathy-holguins-virtual-funeral-service-tickets-129806395423

Flowers can be sent to the funeral home, Affordable Cremation and Burial at https://www.affordablecremationabq.com .