On February 23, 2026, Patrick Michael Apodaca left this world, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, devotion, and quiet kindness. Born on July 26, 1966, in Las Cruces to Virginia and Eduardo Apodaca, Patrick grew up with strong family values that shaped the man he became. He spent his career as a sheet metal worker, taking pride in his craft and in his membership in the sheet metal union. His coworkers knew him as reliable, steady, and always willing to lend a hand.

Affectionately known as "Poohbear" because of his deep hugs and soft lead in life, Patrick was most known to those around him as someone who was always seeking to help others. You could often find him taking leftover catering from work to the unhoused, regularly feeling moved by and donating to various charities, and offering his expansive skillset to help loved ones and strangers alike.

Patrick loved crafting metal/wood/welding art for family, live music, traveling, fishing, the range, and teaching his children various life skills he had acquired through his rich and varied experiences. His empathetic heart, creativity, and fervent curiosity, made him a forever student/teacher, and has guided his ability to connect with and inspire people from all walks of life.

He will be remembered by his big spirit, unwavering loyalty, and the way he showed his love through action. Although he left this Earth too soon, his impact will continue to ripple. His love was transformative, and he will be ineffably missed by everyone.

Patrick's greatest joy came from his close and extended family. He is survived by his mother, Virginia; his daughters, Anjelica and Ariel; his son, Patrick E.; his brother, Phillip; and his grandchildren Aliejah, Tegyn, and Scotlyn.

He now joins his father, Eduardo, his sister, Priscilla, and his cousin, Judd, in eternal rest.

A Funeral Mass honoring Patrick's life will be held at 9:30 a.m. on Friday, March 27, 2026, at Holy Cross Catholic Church, 1327 N. Miranda Street.

Following, A celebration of life will be held at Elk's Lodge, 3000 Elks Dr, from 1pm until 6:00pm.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, a donation be made to a charity of your choice, in Patrick's name, as he would have wanted.

Service arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Baca's Funeral Chapels of Las Cruces and Sunset Crematory, 527-2222. Your exclusive provider for "Veterans and Family Memorial Care." For online condolences logon to www.bacasfuneralchapelslascruces.com