Joseph Albert Mestas, 64, a lifelong resident of the San Luis Valley, passed on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at his residence in Alamosa, CO, surrounded by the love and support of his family. Born on July 10, 1962, to Pricilla “Barela” Mestas and Felix Mestas in Manassa, CO. He made many honorable achievements, especially during his time as an air assault medic in the U.S Army, but one of his greatest accomplishments was always cherishing and loving his wife, kids, grandkids, family, and the people of the San Luis Valley.

Growing up, Joe attended school in both Manassas CO and Alamosa CO and has always been complimented for his outgoing, daring, and overall friendly character that remained relevant throughout his whole life. With these types of characteristics, Joe was able to captivate any person, room, or conversation, which eventually led him to win over his lifelong partner and friend, Fran, whom he would go on to admire, support, and show unconditional love to forever. After graduating, he went on to serve in the U.S. Army as an air assault medic at 21 years old, highlighting his dedication and ability to show fortitude.

Aside from pridefully being a groundskeeper at ASU, Joe enjoyed going fishing, camping, gathering family and friends for BBQs at his home, FACEBOOK, taking pictures, and, of course, attending car shows and being with the people of the San Luis Valley.

He was survived by his wife, Fran Mestas; his children, April Mestas, Matt (Destiny) Mestas, and Akela Mestas; and his grandchildren Damyon, Eliseo, Jazavior, Quintin, Jessie-Joe “J.J”, Zach, Brooklyn, Riyen, Gia, Aliyana, Jeshua, and Adriel. As well as his sisters and their spouses, Angie (Patrick) Navares, Gloria Mestas, and Cindy (Khone) Khoketkham, and many nieces and nephews. Moreover, he was preceded in death by his father, Felix Mestas; his mother, Priscilla Mestas; and his grandparents, Adolpho and Rocita Mestas.

To honor Joe's hard-working legacy of Vigil service, a recitation of the Rosary will be held at 6:30 Pm on Tuesday, October 20th 2026, at the Rogers Family Mortuary Home in Alamosa, CO, and a Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 21st 2026, at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Alamosa, CO. Burial will follow the services at Alamosa Municipal Cemetery.

Family and friends are warmly welcomed to join in celebrating the love and happiness that Joe brought to our lives at Adam State University at Plachy Field House. The family will be providing some food, however any additional “potluck” style dishes would be greatly appreciated due to the unknown number of occupants attending for the remembrance of Joe, and the remarkable individual he was, and forever will be.