Callison, Roy “Buster”

Mr. Roy “Buster” Callison, 83, of Farmington, died Friday, Nov. 25, 2005, in Farmington.

He was born May 7, 1922, in Perryton, Texas, to Ellen and Walter Callison.

He left home at the age of 12, shortly after the death of his father and took whatever jobs he could find. He served in the Army during World War II. By the mid-1940s he was making his home in Portales and had a small trucking business.

On Sept. 6, 1947, he married DeElva Ledbetter. He moved his family to Albuquerque where he worked in construction as a heavy equipment operator for several years. He then became an ironworker, working on towers, and became a member of the Ironworker’s Union.

During his career as an ironworker he helped in the construction of the Tramway in Albuquerque, family members said. The last portion of his working life he was a boiler operator and maintainer for the University of New Mexico.

He retired in 1989 and moved to Portales in 1990 in order to help in the care of his mother-in-law. Family members said he was a devoted husband and father, and would work at whatever job would allow him to best provide for his family. He was a self-educated man, and had many creative talents. He enjoyed welding. Among his creations were log splitters, chili roasters, motorized haulers, and motorcycles.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Dortha Read; and by his wife, DeElva, who died Aug. 25, 2003.

Survivors include his son, Roy L. Callison of Aztec; daughter, Linda Callison of Portales; five grandchildren, and 17 great-grandchildren.

Scott P. Reeves will officiate

All of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren will serve as honorary pallbearers.

Arrangements are by Wheeler Mortuary of Portales.