James Muldowney

James passed away peacefully in his home in Elk, NM May 12, 2022.  He was born in Ft. Collins Colorado on July 19, 1957, to Bill and Francis Muldowney.

James grew up in the mountains of Montana and the plains of Kenya. Enjoying his many outdoor passions especially hunting and fishing and more fishing and a wee bit of golf.

James started his career of being a chef in 1975 at the Santa Barbara Yacht Club continuing to The Marriott and The International Hotel & Resort in California moving onto Austin, Texas to La Mansion and Waller Creek. Eventually being hired by the former President Wendell Chino of the Mescalero Apache tribe to be the Executive Chef of the Inn the Mountain Gods 35 years ago.

Throughout his time working for the Mescalero Apache Tribe James had many accomplishments and did many great things for the tribe. One of which starting the first ever American Culinary Federation Mescalero Apache apprenticeship program that set the pace for all reservations across the United States.

James touched many people throughout his life and career many great friends, family and many great chefs all across the Country.

James is proceeded in death by his parents Bill & Francis and stepson Larry.

He is survived by his wife, Charlotte and stepsons Hesston, Clarence and Pascal Enjady; his sons, Ryan and Thomas Muldowney; his sisters, Susan Sacry and Patty Opitz; many nieces and nephews and eight grandchildren.

May the road rise to meet you,

May the wind be always at your back.

May the sun shine warm upon your face,

The rains fall soft upon your fields.

And until we meet again,

May you be in heaven a half an hour before the devil even knows you’re dead.