Ricardo A. Padilla

1958-2016 Ricardo A. Padilla, age 58, a resident of Albuquerque, NM, passed away Monday, April 18, 2016. There are numerous words that come to mind when you describe Ricardo’s character, but “Wisdom” and “Diligence” are the two that best suit him. He had his own unique way of sharing his life, but no matter how he delivered it you knew and understood it was all in love. Ricardo truly had a Servants heart, whether it was on the job or in his community he gave his best. He spent the best years of his life with his partner and best friend, Miguel. Ricardo was a devoted Christian and always found the good in everything. He was especially good at making people laugh, he could have been a comedian. Ricardo loved music, especially New Mexican music, he attributed his love from his father. Ricardo would always recall his father serenading us at home and in the car. He was a graduate of Belen High School, class of 1976, Ricardo was a part of the high school band, the honors society and took boys state. He was also a long distance runner in track. Ricardo continued his education at the University of New Mexico, where he became a die hard Lobo fan and played in the marching band. He received his bachelors degree in Theology and minored in communications. Throughout his life Ricardo made a career of 26 years in broadcasting, and worked for KANW, KKIM, KABQ, KARS, KSAB and was currently working with KDCE. Many knew him for his many talents and wittiness which won him the New Mexico Broadcasters award 3 years in a row for best DJ. Along with the love of his career Ricardo had many hobbies which included his birds, Baby and Katrina and enjoyed raising and training his homing pigeons. His favorite football team was Denver Broncos. Ricardo was also a member of the Knights of Columbus and a Catechist. He always maintained a beautiful yard and there was never a holiday or occasion he did not decorate for. Ricardo is preceded in death his father, Celso F. Padilla; brother, Michael; sister, Lupe; grandparents, Albert and Josie Baca, Estanslado and Beatrice Padilla; uncle, Major Ray; aunts, Vicky, Pricilla, Viola, Cruzita, and Romanita; and best friends, Ray and Edna. He is survived by his partner, Miguel; mother, Dolores Padilla; sister, Yolanda (Howard); aunts Virgie, Sapien, and Anna Baca; nephews Don, and Joseph; nieces, Ellie (Jimmy) and, Nicole; and great-nieces and nephews, Adam Evina, Keely, Murial, Logan, Orian, and Antonio. Ricardo is also survived by many cousins, friends, and his radio community. The family would like to thank Father Jonas, and Deacon Rudy, along with all the staff at Our Lady of Belen, Mariache Mike for the music, Richard and Glenda for the eulogy. Also a thank you to Romero Funeral Home, Rutilio’s for catering, the Pilot Club of Belen for providing the desserts, and to everyone who has called, sent money, visits, flowers, cards, masses, pallbearers, and for all the food that has been provided by friends. Please sign Ricardo’s online tribute at www.romerofuneralhomenm.com Romero Funeral Home, 609 N. Main St. Belen, NM.

Ricardo A. Padilla

March 3, 1958 - April 18, 2016