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In Loving Memory of Vincent Alan Ochoa. It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Vincent Alan Ochoa on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, following a courageous battle with ALS. Though we grieve, we find comfort in knowing he is no longer in pain. The Lord, in His mercy, saw Vincent’s body had grown weary and called him home.
Vincent faced numerous health challenges with incredible strength and resilience. One of his transplant surgeons affectionately called him “El Soldado Universal,” describing him as one of the strongest men he had ever met, someone who surpassed expectations and defied medical odds.
Born on October 23, 1974, in Alamogordo, NM to Eddie and Helen Ochoa, Vincent was known by many names, Vince, Vinny, Vin, Uncle Fester, Chente, Brother, Dad, Grandpappy, and Grandpasaurus. Each nickname reflected the love and connection he shared with those around him. He is deeply missed by his devoted life partner, Esmeralda Loewen, who lovingly walked beside him and cared for him throughout their journey together.
The youngest of his siblings, Vincent is survived by Linda Paz and David Ochoa, and preceded in death by his mother and father, Eddie and Helen Ochoa, and his brother, Arnie Ochoa. He held a deep love for his siblings and prayed for them daily.
Vincent leaves behind four cherished children, Brianna Ochoa, Veronica Ochoa, Vincent “Ray Ray” Ochoa, and Lucas Pons-Ochoa; three beloved stepdaughters, Sierra Loewen, Monet Loewen, and Nadia Loewen; four precious grandchildren, Angel, Able, Valencio, and Syair. He also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, dear friends, mentors, and his brothers and sisters in Christ.
Known for his quick wit, contagious laughter, and radiant smile, Vincent’s presence lit up every room he entered. His long, distinct eyelashes and expressive eyes reflected the love and warmth within his soul. He was a light in this world, one that can never be dimmed.
From a young age, Vincent embodied a strong work ethic. His first job was at a tortilla factory, and as he grew older, he often held multiple jobs while still making time to volunteer at church, work he considered the most rewarding, as it was done in service to the Lord.
Throughout his life, Vincent explored many vocations, from plumbing to firefighting in Santa Fe, before discovering his true passion, cooking. As a talented chef, he worked in restaurants across Alamogordo, Albuquerque, Moriarty, and Edgewood. His signature red chili was especially loved by close friends and family.
In 2018, Vincent began attending Mountain View Church in Alamogordo, where he was baptized on September 15, 2019. He described the experience as transformative, feeling the weight of his sins lifted as he dedicated his life to Christ. Never ashamed of his past, Vincent used his life story to testify to God’s grace, love, and forgiveness. He became a devoted volunteer at Mountain View Church, always living by the scripture, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” (Acts 20:35)
In 2020, Vincent’s health declined significantly, and he underwent a liver and kidney transplant in November 2021. After recovering, he returned to volunteer at Mountain View Church and the Runners Refuge Ministry. Though he never regained full health, his determination to serve remained unwavering until his body could no longer continue.
The Ochoa family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to the many medical teams who cared for Vincent over the years, including Banner Health in Tucson, UNM Neurology in Albuquerque, Christus Health, Alamogordo Lincare, Alamogordo Homecare and Hospice, and others who played a role in his journey. Special thanks also go to New Mexico ALS for their invaluable support during the most challenging times.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to NewMexicoALS.org <http://NewMexicoALS.org> (<http://newmexicoals.org/>), ALS page <https://secure2.convio.net/alsa/site/TR/DIY/NationalOffice?px=9280303&p…;. We encourage everyone to consider becoming an organ donor, because of these gifts, Vincent was given more time with his loved ones.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 pm, Sunday, June 1, 2025, at Mountain View Church with a reception to follow.
