Joe "Albert" Serrano

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Joe “Albert” Serrano. Albert was born on November 15, 1958, to Filemon and Virgina Serrano.

 He graduated from Santa Fe High School in 1977 and was known for his gentle and upbeat spirit, always eager for fun and ever ready to assist those in need.  Albert had a deep passion for cooking, leading him to various adventures and opportunities across different states, often working alongside his siblings, including his brothers Fernando and Anthony and his sister Maria.

  Albert is preceded in death by his beloved mother, Virginia Serrano. He is survived by his father Filemon Serrano, stepmother Alice Serrano, brothers Fernando Serrano (Mai), Anthony Serrano, sisters Kathy Bustos (Carlos), Debra Maez, Maria Gauna (Ron), and Frances Serrano, as well as stepsisters Eileen (Jimmy), Annette (Joe), June (Robert), Linda (Waldy), and Judy (Saul), stepbrother Mark (Gina). Nephews, Joey Maez (Cherise), Gabriel Bustos (Lexy), Lorenzo Tapia, Daniel Tapia, Anthony Jr. Serrano, Lucas Gauna, Nieces Kristine Bustos-Mihelcic (Josh), Latoya Maez, Michelle Garduno (James), Amanda Gupton (Hunter), Katrina Serrano, Katie Gauna Barillas Fogarty (Trent). Numerous great nephews and nieces and a very special great nephew Lennox.

 Following the passing of his mother in 1984, Albert, along with his brothers and their friend Billy, embarked on a journey to Alaska, where he worked as a chef on a Shell Oil platform in the Gulf of Alaska. After his time in Alaska, Albert reunited with his brother Fernando in Seattle, he was a chef for the Goodwill Games, then the two ventured to Oregon. In Oregon, Albert played a pivotal role in assisting Fernando in opening La Fiesta Mexican Restaurant and Cantina in Jacksonville and later in Medford. 

Subsequently, he relocated to Oklahoma and then to Ft. Sumner, NM, where he worked alongside his sister Marie and brother-in-law Ron at their establishment, Fred’s Restaurant and Lounge. Throughout his career, Albert played a pivotal role in the opening, management, and menu development of numerous restaurants. His expertise extended to serving as a chef at these establishments, showcasing his versatile skills in the culinary arts. In 2003, Albert returned to Santa Fe, where he spent the next two decades enjoying life, spending quality time with family and friends, and embracing the laid-back New Mexican lifestyle.

 He cherished driving to Pecos and taking leisurely cruises around downtown Santa Fe and the Plaza, people watching and engaging in conversations with both friends and strangers, embodying the carefree spirit of the “Land of Mañana”. Albert was a significant presence in the lives of his sister Frances and her sons Lorenzo, Anthony, and Daniel always present in their daily lives. He will be greatly missed. The family has chosen to hold private services and expresses gratitude to everyone for their prayers and support.