FLORENTINO “TINO” APODACA, 72, of Las Cruces, NM, passed away peacefully in hospice on October 9, 2026. He was born to Federico Apodaca Sr and Felicitas Rodriguez Apodaca. Tino spent his younger years in Las Cruces before joining the Navy near the end of the Vietnam War. Once discharged, he worked different jobs before opening a pool cleaning business. His belief in his business was to treat people with respect and always try to fix the problem before replacing them with new products.

Tino found joy in mentoring and did so with numerous family members and friends. Many of his grandchildren and nieces and nephews remember him taking them to the park, hikes in the Organ Mountains, or Farmer’s Market. He spent his later years loving his dog, Beans, and cheering on the Chicago Bears.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 52 years, Frankie Apodaca; his children Christina (John) Ruiz and Pam (Edwin) Washington; grandchildren Kayla (Sean) Coppock, Xavier Herring, Isaac Ruiz, Jacob Ruiz, Joseph Ruiz, Elisha (Corey) Johnson, Aden Apodaca, Treyshawn Washington, and Aianna Washington; siblings Daniel Apodaca, Victoria Morales, Ester Ponce, Rose Reyna, Jose (Claire) Apodaca, Genevieve (Jerry) Northcliff, Ronulfo (Mary) Apodaca, Margarita Apodaca, and Eddie (Josie) Apodaca. He is also survived by 8 great grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews, and many friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents and siblings Federico Apodaca Jr, Raul Apodaca, David Apodaca, and Tranquilino Apodaca.

In keeping with his wishes, he will be cremated; his family will honor his deep love for the Organ Mountains by spreading his ashes there. Per his request, there will be no formal funeral services; instead, a Celebration of Life will be held next year to bring his family and friends together to share memories, laughter, and stories in a way he would have wanted. Details will be shared closer to the date.

Cremation has been entrusted to the care of Baca’s Funeral Chapel of Las Cruces and Sunset Crematory, 300 E. Boutz Road, 527-2222. Your exclusive provider for “Veterans and Family Memorial Care.” For online condolences logon to www.bacasfuneralchapelslascruces.com