Edward Richard Rael was born on May 13, 1949, in Reserve, New Mexico to Martin and Precila Rael. Edward took his place amongst the angels on April 9, 2026, at the VA Medical Center in Albuquerque, NM. He is preceded in his passing by his son, Edward John, parents, four sisters, two brothers, and one brother who passed just four days after him. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Irene, daughter Rachel and her sons Emilio Matuz and Patrick Matuz; his son Andres (Laura) and their children, Jaira Rael, and Nazareth Rael, step-grandson Andres (Evita) and their 3 children, one brother, and one sister and many nieces and nephews, as well as several cousins.

He attended elementary and mid-school at Santo Niño Catholic School in Aragon, and attended high school at Reserve High School, graduating in the year 1967. He was called to duty in 1969 to serve in the First Infantry Division of the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, the youngest of 3 brothers to participate in the conflict. He married Irene J. Gutierrez on March 11, 1972, and started a family with Rachel, born in 1972, Edward John was born and deceased in 1977, and Andres was born in 1978. A short time after starting a family, Edward started a career as a wildland firefighter for the U.S. Forest Service that would last until 1999, serving primarily in the Gila and Apache National Forests. He worked his way up to become FMO of the Luna-Quemado Ranger District and retired at the tender age of 50. He also served locally as a volunteer firefighter in Reserve and served as a dispatcher for the Catron County Sheriff’s Department.

His passion for the outdoors complemented his career in protecting and improving the forests, which led to his many successes during his time as a firefighter. His love of hunting is known by all, and he had countless successful hunts, from turkey to deer and elk, as well buffalo and oryx and bear. He also enjoyed fishing, as a way to relax with his family, yet hunting was his main passion. Spending time at the Rael Ranch was a way of life for Edward, as he grew up tending the cattle, and upkeeping the family homestead. Edward lived his live as a servant-leader; he demonstrated an undying devotion to his wife, family, and nature, tied together with a profound faith in God and Jesus. This world is a better place because of Edward’s selfless sacrifices throughout his existence here, and Heaven will now benefit from him taking his place there.

He will be missed greatly by his grandkids, whom he spoiled every chance he got, his kids Rachel and Andres, and of course, his wife Irene, all of whom enjoyed being in his presence, and have countless memories of his humor and kindness. Though we handed him over to Christ, we believe he is with us always, and we will always be truly blessed and grateful to have been a part of his life.

Services will be held at Santo Niño Church in Aragon, NM as follows: Rosary at 10:30 am followed by a Mass, with the burial to follow at the cemetery. Fellowship will be held at the Reserve Community Center with a meal following the burial.