L. Patrick Candelaria

With deep sadness, we announce the unexpected passing of Leroy Patrick Candelaria, known to all as Patrick or Pat, who left us on September 1, 2024, in Albuquerque, NM at the age of 61.

Patrick was born to Leroy and Bella Candelaria on March 17, 1963 in Albuquerque, NM. During his childhood, he participated in many youth sports and so began his love for basketball. He attended St. Pius X high school and was a part of the men’s basketball team that won the school’s first state championship in 1980. It was also in high school that he met Karen and the two married years later. 

After high school, Pat attended Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Prescott, AZ. He dreamed of being an astronaut, but ultimately fell in love with flying and went on to get his pilot license. After receiving his bachelor’s degree, he returned to Albuquerque and conducted flight lessons at Kirtland Air Force Base as well as coaching the boys and girls basketball teams at St. Pius. He also worked in the swimming pool industry throughout his life.

Family was the cornerstone of Patrick’s life. He was a devoted husband and father who always put his family’s needs and wants before his own. To his extended family, he was always willing to lend a helping hand. He took immense joy in his children: Audra, Garrett, and Sydney. Seeing his wife’s and children’s happiness is what brought him the most joy in life and he took pride in all of their achievements and accomplishments. He just recently became a grandfather, and was thrilled for his new role as "Pappy". 

Patrick had a love for the outdoors and enjoyed camping, fishing and hunting with his life-long friends. He also loved cooking for his family and hosting gatherings with family and friends. He was a jack of all trades and enjoyed learning new skills for DIY projects. 

Patrick was preceded in passing by his father, LeRoy R. Candelaria, and his mother, Anabella “Bella” Candelaria. He is survived by his wife, Karen Candelaria, children: Audra (Drew) Kent, Garrett Candelaria, MD, and Sydney (Trevor) David, grandson, Beckham Kent, sister, Tina Parrish, brother, John Edward Candelaria, sister-in-laws: Therese (Jim) Wing, Sue (Rich) Goheen, Frannie Holmes, Shari Holmes (Todd Monk), Jeannine (Chris) Alexander, Loretta (Brian) Garrett, brother-in-laws: Steve (Shassidy) Holmes, Mark (Verna) Holmes, Joe (Karen) Holmes, and Matt Holmes, as well as many nephews, nieces, and extended family.

As a dedicated member of Prince of Peace Catholic Community, Patrick found strength and purpose in his faith, which guided his compassionate and generous nature throughout his life.

Services will be held on Monday, September 9, 2024 at Prince of Peace Catholic Community beginning with a viewing at 10:00 AM, rosary and funeral at 10:30 AM, and followed by interment at Gate of Heaven Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Good Shepherd Center, honoring Patrick’s spirit of generosity. 

Patrick’s presence will be profoundly missed, but his love, laughter, and the memories we shared will forever remain in our hearts.