Orlando (Orlie) Alfredo Santillanes

*February 22, 1942 – July 9, 2026*

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our father after a lengthy illness. He passed peacefully surrounded by family. Survived by his 3 children Brenda Martinez, Raymond (Darla) Santillanes, "Baby" John (Tanya) Santillanes, Sister Vicky Armijo, Brother Joey Santillanes, 14 grandchildren, and many great-grandchildren.

Orlie was born to Louis and Rosa Santillanes of Albuquerque N.M. “Los Tomasas”. The youngest of 7 brothers and sisters, and many family members. He attended Valley High School where he studied music and became the band conductor and graduated to begin his education at UNM.

He retired from Rainbo Baking Company. He was a musician who played all instruments, with the Saxophone becoming his heart and soul. He played in many bands. His first band that he played in was The Gay Nighters with his older brother Joey Santillanes and brother- in-law John Roybal as manager. In order are the next bands that he played in. Wind Machine, Victor Arrey & his Orchestra, Oldies Review, Albuquerque Express with his nephew drummer Joseph Santillanes Jr., Midnight Magic. He enjoyed being at the studio recording his numerous CD’s.

He is loved by so many. He was very patient and was known for giving the shirt off his back. Every time you are around him, he will make you/anyone laugh, not just his jokes but also being himself. Anytime we would go out to eat, he would pay with no questions, it was always his pleasure no matter who you were. He was a very hard worker, and I believe that is why he loved to flip the bill and share the fruits of his labor. We remember all the special times that he would travel to come to visit with his children and would bring a different cousin with him every time. We will always carry those special memories with us. He taught us great morals, values, standards, and respect. He will be deeply missed by everyone. Thank you, dad, for leaving us a beautiful Legacy.

Pallbearers:

Anthony Ray Santillanes

Devin Ray Santillanes

Angelo Santillanes

Kenneth Santillanes

Ronnie Santillanes

Joseph Jr. Santillanes

Eddie Santillanes

Rumaldo Armijo

Honorary Pallbearers:

Mark Sewell

Marcus Santillanes

Dawson Santillanes

Brennen Ortiz

Anthony Santillanes (Nephew)

Tristan Covington

Rico Santillanes

Victor Arrey

Anthony Sedillo

Steve Baca

Donations Appreciated: https://gofund.me/2b38f6575 

You can also Donate directly to Mount Calvary Cemetery: 5052430218 1900 Edith Blvd ABQ, NM Contract MTC0046786-A

Arrangements have been entrusted to the caring and compassionate professionals at

Trujillo Family Funeral Home

"Our Family Serving Yours"