Personalities Plus: Homero Aguirre

Your name: Homero Aguirre

Your age: 41; Feb. 11, 1964

Your hometown: Des Moines, N.M.

Occupation: Custodian for the Portales Public Schools/Owner of Authentic Auto

Your family: Terri (wife), my two boys; Kaleb (16) and Brandon (11)

Your hobbies: I enjoy riding motorcycles. I also coach city league basketball and baseball.

What do you think of Portales?

“When I first attended ENMU in 1982, I asked my friends, ‘Who would want to live in Portales?’ Twenty-three years later here I am The people in this community are outstanding and Portales itself is a great place to raise a family.”

What do you visualize your life being like in 10 years?

“Retired from the Portales School District and concentrating on my business 100 percent.”

Tell us about your parents:

“My parents, Amadeo (died in 1993) and Juanita were immigrants from Mexico. In 1972 they left home and family behind so their children could have a better life. Respect, honesty and hard work were qualities they instilled in me. These were qualities they themselves lived by each and everyday.”

Who is someone you admire in life? Why?

“My parents. They would go out of their way to help anyone in need. In the early 70s there were not many immigrants in northern New Mexico. When someone from Mexico arrived, they would take them in and help them find employment. Their generosity still astounds me.”

What is your greatest hope?

“That my two sons and their families will celebrate mine and Terri’s 50th wedding anniversary with us.”

If money were no object, what would you do to make the world a better place?

“I would provide food, shelter and medical assistance for everyone.”

Tell us about your greatest individual accomplishment.

“Trying to be the best husband and father that I can.”

What does prosperity mean to you?

“Having good health and friends to laugh with.”

Who was your best friend when you were growing up? What was wonderful about him or her?

“Ben Vukonich. He was not too proud to say, ‘I’m sorry.’ He was a very humble person.”

If you could return to your childhood and take one thing with you that you’ve learned as an adult, what would it be?

“Do not try to be an adult before its time, enjoy free room and board. Great responsibility will be with you for the rest of your adult life.”

If I could do anything, I would…

“Bring loved ones that have passed away back to life.”

Tell us about a happy time:

“The birth of Kaleb and Brandon.”

If you could be a superhero, what would your name and powers be?

“Dr. Feel Good. My powers would enable me to cure those that are terminally ill – especially children.”

What’s your idea of a perfect day?

“My wife and I cruising on my motorcycle with our friends on a clear, clear sun shiny day. That almost sounds like a song.”

Tell us about your spouse:

“Terri is my best friend. She is a super wife and mother. My song for her is ‘She Don’t Know She’s Beautiful.’ Terri is one of the hardest working people that I know. I would not be the father I am today had it not been for her guidance. I love you Terri!”

If you could redo one moment in life, what would it be?

“I would let those that have passed away know how much they meant to me and how special they are. Everyone needs to know when they have a positive influence in someone’s life.”

Name one thing you like about yourself?

“I have a sense of humor. After all, laughter is the best medicine.”

What is your favorite song?

“Back in Black by AC/DC. That song takes me back to my high school basketball games. That was our theme song when we wore our black uniforms."

— Compiled by Laurie Stone