Michael Veloy Vigil passed away on November 20, 2023 devastating his family, friends and all that knew him for his kind heart, beautiful grin and epic humor. Always excited to share a joke, he was known for his humor. Michael was at heart, a person who loved life. He loved sports; from watching football, being involved in Fantasy football, to fishing in the beautiful streams near his home, snow skiing and playing on basketball and baseball teams in his younger days. While deep sea fishing on a trip to California, he caught a marlin, giving him the name Marlin Mike.
Michael also had a tremendous talent for art which was deeply embedded in his roots. Over the years he was involved in many art shows from his town of Taos to California's Dodger Stadium, Virginia Beach, and a highly successful show with Robert Mondavi Winery’s. He touched many people's lives with his unique style and kind spirit. His work was both meaningful and whimsical allowing his personality to shine through.
Michael was born in 1958 in Denver, CO but spent most of his growing up years in California. It was after his parents settled in Taos in the early 1980's that he decided to join them and try his hand at another way of life. Once there he became a ski instructor and engaged his artistic gift by becoming a painter and master printmaker alongside his father and brother. It was also there that he met his wife Tanya.
He became involved with the Taos Municipal School District. In the past few years, he shared this talent by teaching local Taos students the art of printmaking, it was a role he loved and found deeply rewarding. He discovered another artistic ability he possessed sharing his musical talents as well.
Michael is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Tanya Ocanas Vigil, brother, Dan Vigil, sisters, Rita Vigil-Ferguson and Sandi Chavez; nieces and nephews, Nathan Chavez, Alexis DiMarco, Adam Chavez, Danielle Vigil, Corbin Ferguson and great nieces and nephews. His parents Veloy and Elena Vigil preceded him in death several years ago. The Vigil's are a close and devoted family; this huge loss will take more than time to get over. Michael's legacy as a simple man who enjoyed the simple things in life was a gift and continues to be giving. He was humble, compassionate and had a deep love for people. In tribute, please honor Michael by giving a hug to someone you love or someone who needs a hug. By spreading the love we keep his memory alive.
Services to be held at: Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, 205 Don Fernando Street, Taos, New Mexico on Wednesday, December 13, 2023. Rosary at 9 am followed by Mass at 10 am.
Arrangements by Rivera Family Funeral Home, Taos. To share a memory, please visit our website at riverafuneralhome.com
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About |
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| Name | Michael Veloy Vigil |
| Date of Birth | 1958 |
| Date of Death | November 21st, 2023 |
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Memorial |
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| Funeral Home | Rivera Family Funeral Home - Taos | |
| Address |
818 Paseo Del Pueblo Sur Taos NM 87571 United States |
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published a tribute .
Dear Tanya and family, With all of you, I was shocked and so very very full of sorrow to read of Michael's death in my online newsletter from Taos News in November. He was a wonderful artist and teacher, and I'll never forget my time learning printmaking from him. He was always so kind, patient, encouraging and just a joy to be with. Tanya, I also treasure our few times together and your kindness to me as well. Taos holds a special place in my heart, and the two of you are a big part of that. I am now 81 but still working with Rob at Wilder Nightingale , and I think the last time I saw you and Michael was at Rob's 50th birthday party at his gallery many years ago now. Personal connections are what our hearts treasure. May all of you be blessed with wonderful memories to share of your priceless years with Michael. With love, Louise Minks, Massachusetts
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published a tribute .
Michael was a wonderful next door neighbor, always offering a friendly hello / story and produce from his Summer garden. We are so incredibly sad about his passing. Love to Tanya, his friends and family. Hug someone in his honor!
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Tanya, Dan, Rita and Sandi, I am so sorry to hear about Michael. He was truly a wonderful person and will be missed. May God bless you all in this time of sorrow. May Michael Rest in Peace
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published a tribute .
Michael was kind and extremely talented man. It is so sad to have him taken away so soon. Our deepest condolences. Thom and Lavinia Wheeler
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published a comment .
I was shocked to hear about Mikes passing today... Mikey was my favorite brother in law... He had the biggest heart and I will always remember his big smile. I have so many wonderful memories of family trips to Mexico. My heart is broken rest in peace my brother, my love and condolences to Mike's family and especially to my "sister" Tanya
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My deepest condolences Tanya and Familia Vigil. He will always be remembered. May you find healing and comfort.
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published a tribute .
Michael and I went to High School together in Anaheim, CA. Michael was so friendly and always had a beautiful smile for everyone. He was such a positive person with a kind word for everyone. It seems those wonderful qualities stayed with him through the years.
My condolences to his family, friends, and art community.
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published a tribute .
We are in shock to hear of Michaels passing. He was the most wonderful man, artist, friend, print maker, human being,… who loved his family so, and shared his big heart with everyone. He helped to teach me printing and was always patient, encouraging, creative, generous, and just plain fun! I loved going to Graphic Impressions to work with him, to learn new things, to play, and experience the sheer joyousness of making art with him.
Our hearts go out to his beloved wife Tanya, to his brother Dan, and to all his family, friends and loved ones. He will always be remembered for his generous and fun loving creative spirit, and for all he gave to this community. May you fly on the wings of all that love and big heartedness that you gave to so many.
Peggy & Bob
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Tanya, I am so sorry for your loss. Heartfelt sympathy to all your family. We will all miss his smiling face, generosity and positivity.
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Tanya and all the Vigil family, Tom and i were saddened to learn of Michael's recent death. It is hard to imagine that a man with such a zest for life, still full of talent and joy, could have died so young. The years I spent in Taos working for the Vigil family were some of the best times in my life. I so loved and admired the whole family, I send my deepest sympathy to you, Tanya. Michael loved you most of all, but he made us all feel loved and appreciated. He shall be missed, but always remembered with warmth and a smile. Peace and love, Grace
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published a tribute .
I am shocked and saddened to read of the untimely passing of Michael Vigil. He and his beautiful wife Tanya are dear friends for many years. Mike was brilliant, gifted and a visionary artist. Easy going, funny, exceedingly kind and generous. His was a true heart of gold. Always loving. Always willing to help out. I am honored to have known you dear Mike and called you my friend. May you rest with the angels, dear friend. And my beloved, Tanya, my heart is breaking for you.- Amy Córdova
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published a tribute .
My very deepest condolences to you Tanya and your family. I grew up with Mike in Anaheim. I was in Taos in 2018. Prayers to you...he is with our good Lord. I am so sorry.
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published a tribute .
Tanya I am so sorry to hear about Michael 's passing. My condolences to you and the family. May he rest in peace. Prayers and blessings
published a comment .
Tanya , my deepest condolences on the passing of your husband. My the lord give you peace during this difficult time.
published a comment .
Tanya, our sympathy on the passing of Michael. Besides his great heart, he was a great teacher. We have prints that David made in his studio. Our prayers are with you and your family.
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Tanya, my sincerest condolences. Death hurts so bad. I wish you well. When I go up to Taos, I’ll try to find you. There are no words, death is the ugliest sting ever.
published a comment .
Dearest Tanya, My prayers and tears go out to you for the loss of Michael. Such a kind and loving man. May his memory be a blessing.
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published a tribute .
Graphics One was our go-to place to print, and it always so much fun. Mike was a master printer, and was so helpful when I started printing with him in the early 90s. I am so stunned that he has left us. We will miss his presence so much.
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published a tribute .
I remember Mike as a great softball player, with a very funny sense of humor. We played on the same teams for awhile and he and brother Dan were often the difference between forfeits and victory. He will be greatly missed. My sincere condolences to his family. You are in my prayers.
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published a tribute .
Dear Tanya,
My sympathies on the passing of Michael. May his memory be a blessing to you. Sending love and prayers to you.
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