Paul Lovato

Paul Lovato, a man known for his relentless work ethic, boundless generosity, and infectious humor, passed away on Sunday, January 7, 2024, at the age of 63 after a valiant 12 year battle with Leukemia.

He was preceded in death by his mother Flora Lovato and father Antonio "Tony" Lovato.

Paul  is survived by his wife Bernadette; sons: Paul Lovato, Jr., Angelo J. Lovato, Ricco A. Lovato, Andron D. Lovato; grandsons: Angelo Lovato, Jr., Lorenzo D. Lovato, Rolando C. Lovato, Zayd R. Lovato, Eziray Lovato; granddaughters: Zyrah E. Lovato, Jazlyne Lopez, Leryssa R. Lovato, Lexxya L. Lovato, Lysee D. Lovato, with two more grandchildren on the way; sisters: Judy Walker and husband Sammy, Mary Jenkins and husband Clarence, Antonia Menendez and husband Joe, Angela Archibeque and husband Bob, Janette Summers and husband Gary; and brother Nick Carillo.

Paul's strong work ethic was amazing.  He work for the Albuquerque Public School District for 23 years and part time for the Pit Stop where he worked on transmissions. In his spare time he would dig yucca plants and sell them to people who wanted the New Mexico landscaping.  As much as he loved work, his love for family was his primary focus in life.  He raised 4 sons and taught them a lot of important life lessons and, of course, about his love of Chevys trucks. All four of his sons own Chevys, something in which Paul took great pride.

Paul was always ready to help others and felt blessed to be able to lift and carry his sick father and be there for him in his most need. You could find him putting Thanksgiving plates in his truck to hand out to people he found on the streets.  He also helped pass out shoes to kids through the Zapata Club. He was asked several times by teachers at the schools where he work, to come into their class and talk about education and hard work, which he always obliged. He would talk about the importance of education and tell the kids that "you can build a bridge or live under one". So many of the kids loved him, that when he was diagnosed with leukemia, they went to the hospital with get well posters and cards. Not your typical maintenance man. He also was proud that he and his family worked to get the Walmart put into his area. It was an uphill battle of knocking on doors and talking to people about the jobs that would be created into the area. Having to collect over 3000 signatures and numerous meetings with the Walmart officials and neighborhood associations, the Walmart was approved. This lead to further development of including a movie theatre, medical facility, restaurants  and much more on Coors and Rio Bravo, which created many jobs for people in the area.

You knew when you ran into Paul not only could you hear him coming saying "What's Uuup!", but that he would leave you with a laugh from his quick wit. His boisterous voice and laughter will be greatly missed, especially his goodbyes. He would always leave you with "I love you, God Bless".

Paul, you fought the fierce leukemia battle with such dignity. You never wavered your faith.  You are a warrior and a champion. We've lost our Hercules, our Superman. We thank God for your beautiful presence in our lives. Rest in Peace our beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, cousin and friend. We will always feel the love you left us.

Paul’s Life Celebration will begin with a Visitation on Sunday, January 14, 2024, at 1:00 pm at Salazar Mortuary located at 400 Third St SW, 87102. Service will begin at 2:00 pm. Reception will follow inside Salazar Mortuary’s Event Center.