Alva Albersmeyer went to be with her Lord and Savior at the age of 75 on March 10, 2023. Alva was born to Ramona Morales and Benjamin Graterole in New York City. She was surrounded by delightful women all her life, with many sisters and step-sisters, and one brother. Alva earned a Nursing Degree at NMSU, and worked for Memorial Medical Surgical Unit, Psychiatric Unit, and for the Public Health Department of Las Cruces. The joy and love of her life was her son, Michael Jake, who preceded her in death last year. She regularly traveled to New York or Florida to spend time with her twin sister Edna and her mother. Alva adored all the pets that she and Jake had the privilege of caring for. She shared love and time with her many friends and church family. Family members describe Alva as 'Wonder Woman' because of her tenacity and inner strength. Alva had a generous heart, sharing goodness and kindness with all those who were blessed to know her.
Alva is survived by her Mother Ramona, Sisters Edna Graterole, Gretchen Graterole, Maria (William) Castro, Elizabeth (Michael) Williams, Maria, and brother Raymond (Millie) Cartagena.
She is preceded in death by her father, Benjamin , step-father Ramon Cartegena, and her beloved son, Michael 'Jake' Albersmeyer.
Alva loved animals especially her cats. In lieu of flowers, the family would be honored if you made a donation to any animal Rescue or Shelter or El Caldito Soup Kitchen, where she and her son Jake served regularly.
A Memorial Service for Alva will be this Friday, March 24th at 7:00 pm. Service will be at Sonoma Springs Church, 3940 Sonoma Springs Ave, Las Cruces, NM 88011.
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