Veldon Cares, of Portales, entered into rest Friday, December 2, 2016, at the age of 81. Veldon Howard Cares was born on September 25, 1935, in Portales, New Mexico to Frank and Tobitha (Rowland) Cares. On March 14, 1983, Veldon married Ginger Pannell in Lubbock, Texas. They were blessed to spend 22 years together. Ginger preceded him in death in 2005.Throughout Veldon's years he owned and operated many business's in Portales. He owned and operated the Sands Steak House from 1976 -78, 4C's Steakhouse from 1977 -78, Winners World Sporting Goods Store from 1979-80, and was a barber for many years. Veldon had many interests and hobbies throughout his life. He was an avid Dallas Cowboys, Texas Rangers, and Dallas Mavericks Fan. Veldon enjoyed collecting and hunting arrowheads, hunting, carpentry, collecting antiques, and he always enjoyed a good game of dominoes or "42". Most of all he enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. Veldon grew up in Portales, and later moved to Lubbock, Texas. He lived 30 years in Lake Dallas before returning home only a year ago to be close to his family. Veldon attended Central Christian Church in Portales.Veldon is survived by one daughter and son-in-law, Robbie and Jay Carpenter of Portales; two sons, Howard Cares of Moscow, Idaho and Isaiah Cares of Rhome, Texas; one sister and brother-in-law, Nilene and Grady Laxson of Spring, Texas; one sister-in-law, Shirley Cares of Rowlett, Texas; Numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins. Veldon was preceded in death by his parents, wife Ginger; one sister Yvonne Williams; one brother Mayo Cares.Per Veldon's request his body was donated to Texas Tech University Health Science Center in Lubbock, Texas for research studies. Arrangements are under the direction of Wheeler Mortuary of Portales. 575-356-4455, wheelermortuary.net