Gervase Peso

Gervase W. Peso, Sr., 87, beloved Husband, Son, Father and Brother, was called to his eternal resting place on April 12, 2023. He was born on September 27, 1935 in Mescalero, NM, to William (Bill) and Sara Peso. He was the last grandson of Chief Peso, who was the last Chief of the Mescalero Apache Reservation. Gervase married Katherine Peso.

Gervase served in the Air Force that took him to Okinawa, Japan, Spain and Vietnam. He was a disabled Veteran of the Vietnam War. He was a member of the American Legion Post #48 and the Elks Club of Ruidoso, Lodge #2086. He was also the Vice President of the Mescalero Gourd Society. Gervase designed the Patch for the 29 ATKS Attack Squadron out of Holloman Air Force Base, which they continue wearing during combat. (Ch'inde Nagutdz'Unde)

Upon completion of his years in the service, Gervase lived in various states prior to his return to Mescalero. He worked for BIA as a Heavy Equipment Mechanic and retired as an Equipment Operator Foreman.

Gervase was a self taught artist and a Traditional War Dancer. He painted the ceremonies and spiritual life of color and rhythm. He would say, " My art is done for the enjoyment of life and our culture. It is my hope that others will enjoy my work and understand the Apache Culture. Most dances are a prayer to the Mountain Gods".

Gervase is survived by his wife, Katherine Peso; Sister Rosemary Swanson; Sons Ruben Peso, Gervase Peso Jr, Fabian Peso, Christopher Henderson; Daughters Tina Herrera and Amanda Peso; Daughter-in-law Bernice Salas; Grandchildren Angel Peso, Brittney Skinner, Cash Peso, Coco Peso, Dawni Vega, Deseri Kulitea, Gervase Peso III, Israel Herrera, Kalyxtra Peso, Marissa Peso, Merche Peso and Tino Herrera and numerous great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Sara Peso, his brothers Dominick (Donnie) Peso, Frederick (Freddy) Peso and his daughter, Michelle Peso.