Angel Vela, 59, of Farmington passed away on August 31, 2026. She was born May 20, 1967 in Arlington Heights, Illinois, to Federico Vela and Josefa Gonzalez.
During her younger years, Angel lived in Rolling Meadows, Illinois, a north-west suburb of Chicago in Cook County.
At just 17 years old, she welcomed her daughter, Sarah Potoczny. Her children would remain one of the greatest and most important parts of her life.
Angel was a talented and creative woman who pursued many passions throughout her life. From 1993 to 1996 she was an artist and entrepreneur through her business, Art-Angel, where she created T-shirts and paintings. She also shared her creativity with children by attending their parties providing fun activities and entertainment. In 1996, she earned an associates degree in business management, adding another accomplishment to a life filled with creativity and curiosity.
Angel had a deep spiritual side and devoted much of her life to exploring and sharing her spiritual beliefs. She worked as an Angelic Interpreter, spending time working with Archangels, writing, and conducting private sessions. She later became a spiritual advisor and author, sharing her experiences and beliefs through her writing and work with others.
Angel was the author of Soul Existence Revealed, Volumes I, II, and III. You can find them by searching: Soul Existence Revealed Volume 1, 2, and 3 Google Books.
She also wrote a children's book titled Star Bright. Some of her other books can be found on Amazon by searching for Angel Vela Book.
Her spiritual work and writings can also be found on her website: divinerealms.wordpress.com.
In 1996, Angel and her children began a new chapter in Colorado. After spending about a year and a half in Glenwood Springs, they moved to Pagosa Springs, where she spent most of her Colorado years and developed a deep love for the mountains and nature. Her favorite place in Colorado was East Pork in Pagosa Springs, near Wolf Creek and the Continental Divide. During her time in Pagosa Springs she also had a dog named Aspen. The mountains held a special place in her heart and became an important part of the memories she created with her family. In 2018, Angel moved with her son to Farmington, New Mexico, where she spent the later years of her life. Her daughter and grandchildren would travel from Pagosa Springs to visit her during holidays and special occasions, creating cherished memories together as a family.
Angel will be remembered for her creativity, spirituality, love of writing, sense of humor, and above all, her love for her family. She was a wonderful, loving mother and a great cook, and she had a unique way of bringing her personality, warmth, and humor into the loves of those around her. She also had a special love for her pets, especially her beloved cat JZ.
Angel's life touched many people through her family, her friendships, her art, her writing, and her spiritual work. The memories she created, the words she wrote, the friendships she cherished, the things she taught, and the love she gave will continue to love on through her children, grandchildren, friends, and all those whose lives she touched.
She will be loved and remembered forever and always by her children, grandchildren, family, friends, and all those whose lives she touched.
Rest peacefully, Mom. Your light will always live on in us.
Angel is survived her son Eric Petersen; daughter Sarah Potoczny; grandchildren Ashlynn Cleveland, Leon Munson, and Quentin Potoczny. She is also survived by her beloved cat JZ and her faithful companion, Sergeant.
There are services scheduled at this time.