Antonio “Tony” Vigil, 91, passed away peacefully in Taos, NM on November 11, 2020.  He was born in Ranchos de Taos, NM to Antonio J. Vigil and Hijnia Gutierrez Vigil in 1929. 

An avid outdoorsman, Tony often loved to fish, hunt, or simply haul firewood in late summer and early fall.  He made an early career of outdoor life.  He fought numerous forest fires near and far as a squad boss.  He also spent 25 years as a supervisor in the Forest Service exploring, preserving, and maintaining the regional forests he loved and enjoyed.  Tony has always been a skilled and gifted craftsman and artisan.  He could often be found joyfully whistling in his woodshop crafting wooden furniture, doors, corbels, and much more. Some of Tony’s proudest works include the altar and outdoor benches at San Francisco de Asís in Ranchos de Taos.  Tony regularly held local workshops to share his talents with locals and visitors at the Taos Historic Museums, including the Martinez Hacienda.  The dedication to his craft led to his work later in life at the Millicent Rogers Museum where he was responsible for designing and constructing exhibit displays to showcase Southwest art collections.

He is preceded in death by his wife of 68 years, Frances Vigil; parents, Antonio J. Vigil and Hijnia Gutierrez Vigil; parents-in-law Ramon Maestas and Rafaelita Fernandez Maestas; sisters, Refugio Barela (Frank), Juanita Sandoval (Alfonso), and Tomasita Mondragon (Tony); brothers, Paul Vigil (Rose), Elias Vigil (Inez), and Miguel Vigil; sisters-in-law, Sofia Fernandez, Anita Sisneros, and Eloisa Trujillo (Eduardo); brothers-in-law, Paul Sisneros (Clorovea), and Jose Sisneros (Maria); infant daughter, Dolores Vigil; son, Raymond Vigil.

Tony is survived by daughters, Diana Gurule (David) and Gloria Godina (Gumercindo); sons, Joseph Vigil and Floyd Sisneros (Veronica); daughter-in-law, Diana Taylor; 6 grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren; sister, Sister Antonita Vigil and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

The family would like to thank Dr. White and his staff for their compassionate care.  The family extends a special thank you to Mr. Robert Graham for his unselfish thoughtfulness, friendship, care and companionship.

Private services will be held. The family of Antonio Vigil has entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home of Taos. www.devargastaos.com 1-866-657-4019