Frank W Sultemeier

Frank W. Sultemeier 90, passed away Wednesday, February 7, 2007 in Roswell, NM. He was born into a New Mexico pioneer ranching family on May 20, 1916, at Varney, near Corona, NM. His father was Frank Sultemeier Sr., and his mother was Dulcie Marietta Sultemeier. He grew up raising sheep with his Mother, Father, and two brothers, Clint and Ernest, southeast of Corona along the Gallo Canyon. Dulcie, Frankie, Clintie and Ernie would move into Corona during the school year, so the boys could attend Corona Public Schools. Frank graduated from Corona High School in 1935. During the mid 30’s there was a terrible drought in New Mexico. Frank Sultemeier Sr., and Dulcie Sultemeier decided to take 10,000 head of sheep, their horses, and boys to Arizona to wait out the drought. The Sultemeier’s loaded the sheep and horses on a train at Lucy, NM, (near Encino), and unloaded them in Seligman, Arizona. They stayed in Arizona for 2 years. When they returned to New Mexico, Frank married his childhood sweetheart Jean Franks, on September 18, 1937. Jean’s Father’s ranch was next to the Sultemeier’s. They knew each other all of their lives. Frank and Jean raised three children on their ranch. Melvin, Marietta, and Connie Lynn. They all loved the ranching life. Jean died September 18, 1977. It was their 40th wedding anniversary. Frank spent 16 years as a dedicated member of the Corona School Board. Besides his love for ranching, and his family, he loved to hunt and fish. Frank also could fix almost anything, or make almost anything. Frank and Jean built their home on the ranch. Frank also worked with leather, making many family members and friends belts. He also made a saddle. He made bridles for the horses, whatever might be needed. Frank never called in a Veterinarian to Dr. the sheep, horses or cattle, he did it himself, and with great success. Frank married Catherine Conner, on April 27, 1978. Frank continued ranching, and living a very active life. He liked to read, enjoyed western art, and enjoyed music. Even though he was 90 years old, he continued branding calves, marking lambs, shipping, and feeding. He could do much more than most people 90 years old. Frank is survived by Catherine Sultemeier, of Corona, NM; son, Melvin Sultemeier and wife Marion Kay of Corona, NM; daughter Marietta of Ignatio, CO and daughter Connie Lynn Sultemeier of Albuquerque, NM. Frank’s grandchildren are Brent Sultemeier and wife Tammie of Bayfield, CO; Sabra Davidson and husband Jack Allen of Corona, NM; John Powell and wife Donna of Ignatio, CO; Andrew Powell of Ignatio, CO; Ross Powell and wife Mary of Durango, CO; Brandon Ledbetter of Albuquerque, NM and Colt Ledbetter of Albuquerque, NM. Great grandchildren include Tysa and Ryan Davidson of Corona, NM; Jesse and Kaitlin Powell of Delores, Co; Jennie Jo Powell of Denton, TX; and Cole Powell of Bella Vista, AZ. Frank is also survived by brother and sister-in-law Ernest and Allene Sultemeier of Albuquerque, NM; sister-in-law Juanita Sultemeier of Roswell, NM and nieces and nephews. Frank was preceded in death by his wife Jean Sultemeier; parents, Frank and Dulcie Sultemeier; brother, Clint Sultemeier; son-in-law, John Powell and niece, Lois Ann Mullins. Frank was a member of the Corona Presbyterian Church, the New Mexico Cattle Growers, New Mexico Wool Growers, New Mexico Farm Bureau and the national Rifle Association. There will be a viewing Friday, February 9, 2007 from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Harris-Hanlon Mortuary Chapel in Moriarty, NM. A Graveside Funeral Services will be held Saturday, February 10, 2007 at 2:00 PM at Corona Cemetery in Corona, NM. Pastor Terry Aiello will be officiating. Pallbearers are Brent Sultemeier, Jack Allen Davidson, Colt Ledbetter, Ross Powell, John Powell, David Bonner and Mark Sultemeier. Honorary Pallbearers will be All Frank’s Friends, Neighbors and Loved Ones. Arrangements entrusted to Harris-Hanlon Mortuary (505) 832-6130 “Our Family Serving Your Family” www.Harris-HanlonMortuary.com