Edmundo Vasquez

Edmundo Vásquez May 14, 1932-June 11, 2024

Edmundo was born in Chacon, NM. Spanish was his native language; he learned English at the local Presbyterian mission school. In 1949 he graduated from Menaul School in Albuquerque, the Presbyterian high school for Hispanics of northern NM. He earned a BS in biology from Highlands University in Las Vegas, New Mexico and a Masters degree in counseling and administration from Stanford University in Palo Alto, California. 

After graduating from college he enlisted in the Air force and was stationed in France. Upon returning to the states he was hired by the PCUSA to work at Wasatch Academy in Utah where he taught Spanish, science, coached and was Dean of Students. He wanted to use his Spanish more and applied to the church’s overseas agency to work in Latin America in 1966. He and his family did missionary training in Stony Point, New York and San Jose, Costa Rica. The family moved to Ibagué, Colombia and served the Colegio Americano for six years. At the normal school Edmundo taught school administration, counseling and teaching methods and in the secondary school science, math and English.

Upon returning to the states he worked on his PHD at Stanford. Before finishing he accepted the position as President of Menaul School, New Mexico. He guided Menaul to self-support, strengthened the board and revised the curriculum. After 27 years of mission school life he changed direction, learning about financial planning and insurance and teaching at the University of New Mexico. He then accepted a position with the Presbyterian Foundation where he was assigned to the Synod of Southern California and Hawaii. Being the only Spanish speaking representative he also did work in Latin America and was one of the top producers for the foundation. 

Edmundo and Jane retired at Monte Vista Grove Homes in Pasadena, California. He is preceded in death by his parents Dora and Eusebio, brother Ben, son Amalio, and first wife Carol. He is survived by his wife Jane, his son Amarante and wife Rhonda, and son Daniel, granddaughter Megan her husband Ray, granddaughter Raquel, and great grandson Rhys and his brother Floyd. 

Edmundo was a lifelong member of El Rito Presbyterian Church of Chacon, NM. He had his 50 year pin as a Mason at Chapman Lodge #2 in Las Vegas NM. He was a devoted servant, valuing education, family and his faith. He was vested in the preservation of what the Presbyterian Church had done in the west especially Hispanic ministries. He said “The formation and inspiration I received at Menaul School have served and helped me to live a busy, challenging and fulfilling life, all thanks to God and God’s grace.” 

Arrangements are under the care of Douglass & Zook Funeral and Cremation Services, Monrovia, CA.