Cindy Mares, born on February 16, 1942, in Santa Fe, New Mexico, passed away on November 14, 2023.

Growing up in Santa Fe, Cindy made lifelong friends, married her true love and soulmate, Richard "Tippe" Mares, raised a wonderful family and was an active member of the community.

Cindy's passions were as diverse as her contributions to the community. An avid hostess and event organizer, she found joy in bringing people together. Cindy's home was not just a residence; it was a warm haven where everyone, from close friends to acquaintances, felt welcomed and embraced. No holiday was complete without an open invitation from Cindy, urging friends and strangers alike to share in the joy of festive celebrations.

Throughout her life, Cindy held various roles in many organizations and nonprofits, reflecting her commitment to making a positive impact on her beloved Santa Fe. Her remarkable contributions included serving as President and a Founding Board Member of Girls Inc., working with Alice King on the NM Children’s Foundation, and dedicating her time to the Villa Therese Clinic. She proudly held the Presidential position on Zonta, a women’s organization dedicated to empowering women. Cindy also volunteered for The Salvation Army.

While raising her three daughters, Cindy was a Brownie leader, chaperoned events and activities, and volunteered at the schools and organizations they were a part of - never missing an event.

For 25 years, Cindy was an integral part of the Santa Fe Fiesta Council, voted member of the year for her service, always making sure the mariachi bands were taken care of and ready to perform, and leaving an indelible mark on the community's cultural heritage. She was a proud coach of the St. Katherine’s Girls' Volleyball Team for 17 years and was voted “Coach of the Year” by the Santa Fe New Mexican. Cindy adored her athletes, many of whom continued to visit her decades later, including in her final days. She served as the Worthy Grand Matron of the Eastern Star three times, embodying her dedication to giving to others with her service.

Cindy found joy in playing tennis with friends, treasured moments with daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and enjoyed creating memories on annual trips. Whether she was spoiling her grandchildren in Disneyland, visiting her brother in Alaska, or enjoying the warm winter weather in Palm Springs, she was always on the go, making the most of every moment.

She is survived by her husband of 62 years, Richard Mares; brother Charlie Smith and wife Paula Smith; daughters Bryana Mares, Brenda Mares and husband Yudi Wong, Bianca Mares Getchell and husband John Getchell; grandchildren Stephen Mares, Amanda Getchell Stevenson, Richard Getchell and Emily Getchell; and two great-granddaughters, Mila Stevenson and Athenah Getchell, along with close cousins, Beata Sanchez, Deborah Macdonnell and Valerie Kwietniak, who looked at Cindy as a mother figure. Her wide circle of friends, whom she considered family, will miss her warmth and presence dearly.

The community of Santa Fe mourns the loss of this extraordinary woman who dedicated her life to helping others. Cindy Mares' legacy of compassion, service, and community engagement will continue to inspire and uplift those who had the privilege of knowing her. May she rest in peace, surrounded by the love and gratitude of the countless lives she touched.

A memorial service will be held in the Spring. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to The Salvation Army in Cindy’s memory this holiday season. 

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