Frank Mirabal Passing

Sharing of the passing of Frank Mirabal on 12 July 2025.

Obituary from the Rivera Family Funeral Home as follows:

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved father, husband, and grandfather, Frank Mirabal, on July 12, 2025. Frank was born on May 19, 1948, to Ralph and Emily Mirabal of Taos Pueblo, where he spent his childhood exploring the mountains and pastures.

In 1967, Frank graduated from Albuquerque Indian School, where he played football and ran track. He then enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, serving with honor in the Vietnam War as part of the Second Battalion, Fourth Marines, known as “The Magnificent Bastards.” During the deadly Battle of Dai Do, where only 250 of 800 Marines survived against nearly 10,000 Viet-Cong soldiers, Frank was wounded three times. He was awarded the Purple Heart and the Warrior’s medal of Valor from the Native American Nations. His military service, which took him to Okinawa, the Philippines, Hawaii, and Iceland, remained a source of great pride throughout his life. He maintained close bonds with his battalion brothers until his passing.

After receiving an honorable discharge in 1970, Frank attended Bacon Junior Collage, excelling in baseball, cross-country, and track. He met his wife, Karel, in 1979, and they married in 1981, building their home and life in Taos Pueblo.

Frank learned the art of drum-making from his father and founded Buckskin Crafts. His drums have received numerous awards at prestigious venues, including the Heard Museum, the Eiteljorg Museum, and the Red Earth Art Show, with pieces featured in the National Museum of the American Indian.

He treasured his family, especially his grandchildren, and found joy in fishing, farming, and hunting near the mountains he loved.

Frank was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Emily, and his siblings, Mary Agnes, Raymond, Eagle River, Parker Dean, and johnny Boy.

He is survived by his wife, Karel; daughters, Jody Coffman (Wayne) and Summer; son, Cody; five grandchildren, McKenna, Troy, Riley, Aries, and Clayton; sister, Rose Omidvaran; numerous godchildren; nieces; and nephews.

Military funeral honors will be held Tuesday, July 22, at 9:30 A.M. at Angel Fire State Veterans’ Cemetery.