Fernando Jesus Tarango

In Loving Memory of Fernando Jesus Tarango Fernando Jesus Tarango, 46, of Belen, New Mexico, passed away on July 4, 2026. Born on September 20, 1979, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Fernando lived a life defined by service, kindness, and unwavering love for his family. Services will take place at Romero Funeral Home Chapel on Thursday, July 23, 2026, beginning with a Visitation at 10:00 a.m., and a Celebration of Life at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Santa Fe National Cemetery. Fernando proudly served his country in the United States Navy as an Operations Specialist aboard the USS Fitzgerald (DDG-62). Following his military service, he dedicated more than 20 years to protecting and serving the people of New Mexico as a Corrections Officer with the New Mexico Corrections Department in Los Lunas. After his retirement, he continued serving his community as a Security Officer at La Merced Elementary School with Belen Consolidated Schools, where he took pride in helping keep students and staff safe. Fernando is survived by his loving wife, Yvonne Ortiz-Tarango; his children, Evastiene Tarango and Alejandro Tarango; and his cherished granddaughter, Naenia Tarango, who lovingly held the title of "Pop Pop's Princess." She brought immeasurable joy to his life, and the time they spent together was among his greatest treasures. He is also survived by his mother, Dolores Garcia; his brothers, Alberto Tarango and Gabriel Tarango; his mother-in-law, Margaret Ortiz; his sisters-in-law, Leslie Tarango, Dorothy McCoy, and Yvette Ortiz; his nephews, Fiel Tarango, Cohen Tarango, and Mateo Tarango; his nieces, Samantha Garcia and Avery Garcia; and many extended family members, friends, coworkers, and fellow service members who will forever cherish his memory. Fernando loved music of every genre, with classic rock and 90s rap always holding a special place in his heart. He enjoyed maintaining his firearm collection and took pride in teaching others about responsible ownership, proper handling, and firearm safety. He found relaxation in playing video games and watching his favorite television shows, especially The Big Bang Theory. Yet above all else, nothing brought him greater happiness than spending time with his beloved granddaughter, Naenia. Those who knew Fernando will remember him as a genuinely kind-hearted man who consistently placed others before himself. Even during his own difficult days, he greeted people with a warm smile and quiet acts of kindness. He was deeply affectionate with his family, especially his wife, Yvonne, whom he loved wholeheartedly. Although large gatherings were often difficult for him, he faced those challenges with courage and determination. He had a wonderful sense of humor and loved making those around him laugh with his playful jokes and gentle spirit. Fernando's legacy is one of honor, compassion, and selfless service. Whether wearing the uniform of his country, serving his community, or simply being present for the people he loved most, he gave of himself wholeheartedly. His love, laughter, and gentle heart will be deeply missed but forever remembered by all whose lives he touched. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to Breaking the Silence New Mexico, an organization dedicated to suicide prevention, awareness, education, and support for individuals and families affected by suicide, in Fernando's memory. Fernando's love lives on in the hearts of his family and friends. Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort in the countless memories he gave us, the lives he touched, and the enduring example of kindness and love that he leaves behind.

Fernando Jesus Tarango

September 20, 1979 - July 4, 2026