Services are scheduled for 10 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 8, at Terpening & Son Chapel for Joseph Arthur Rotolo of Artesia.
Rotolo, 73, passed away Friday, Jan. 3, 2020, at Artesia General Hospital.
Interment will follow the services at Woodbine Cemetery.
Pallbearers will be Roman Armendariz, Lupe Armendariz, Cayetano Mendoza, Martin Mendoza, Dylan Pinson and Jose Cueto.
Joseph was born Nov. 15, 1946, in Allegheny County, Pa., the son of Joseph and Dorothy (Barth) Rotolo.
He served his country as a helicopter pilot in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. After serving in the Army, Joe went on to become a helicopter pilot instructor. He transitioned from the Army to a career in auto sales for more than 20 years, also achieving a bachelor’s degree in biology.
Joseph loved football season, especially rooting for his home-state team, the Pittsburgh Steelers. When he was not cheering on the Steelers, Joe would spend his time outdoors, working on landscaping and gardening. He especially enjoyed weekend trips to Ruidoso, surrounded by the mountains and nature.
Joseph enjoyed listening to his favorite music from the ’50s and ’60s. During his downtime, he would enjoy watching classic movies, such as westerns featuring John Wayne. He was an excellent family man and enjoyed planning adventurous family vacations.
Upon moving to New Mexico, Joe discovered his love of Mexican food and green chile, and established a high spice tolerance. He was always open and excited about trying new and different foods.
Survivors include his wife of 25 years, Magdalena Mendoza; stepdaughters Alex and Cristina Mendoza; sister Shelley Garnett; and brother-in-law Michael Garnett. He leaves behind a growing family who will continue to cheer on the Steelers, share his love of food, and tend to his well-kept yard.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Dorothy Rotolo.
Arrangements are under the direction of Terpening & Son Mortuary. Condolences may be expressed online at www.
artesiafunerals.com.
