Pat Lovato

Pat “Patito” Lovato, Jr., resident of Santa Cruz, passed away on November 16, 2020. Patito was born on November 2, 1941 in Las Vegas, New Mexico to Patricio and Lois Lovato. He is preceded in death by his parents, sister, Rosie Sandoval; brother, Bob Lovato; nephews, David and Raymond Sandoval; brother-in-law, Sonny Martinez, niece Patricia Martinez; mother and father-in-law, Maguin and Teresa Romero.

Patito was well known in the community for being a part of the basketball team as a Santa Cruz Crusader. His love for basketball continued as he watched his granddaughter Emma on the court or shooting hoops with her on a Sunday afternoon. Patito was also an avid hunter and fisherman. He shared his love for the outdoors with the love of his life Andrea, his son, grandkids and many friends and family. Patito has been mentioned as a walking Outdoor Life Magazine come to life in his many stories. Patito and Andrea had a love story written in the stars and were always known to be side by side. His loss is felt deeply by all who knew him.

Patito is survived by the love of his life, his soulmate and wife of 47 years, Andrea, son, Patrick and wife Stephanie, granddaughter Emma, grandsons Patrick and Justin. Sister, Patty Martinez her daughters Lizzy and Monica, Debbie and husband Greg, nephew Filbert and wife Nancy, sister-in-law Geniva Martinez, niece Tanya Sandoval and family, Godson, Matthew Martinez, Jr, and many other numerous relatives and friends.

Serving the family as pallbearers are: Grandson Patrick Lovato, Matthew Martinez, Sr., Matthew Martinez, Jr., Robert Martinez, Daniel Salazar and Gary Vigil. Honorary Pallbearers are grandson Justin Lovato and Amadeo Romero.

Mass of Christian burial will be on Friday, November 20 at 11 am at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Santa Cruz, NM. Due to the Covid Pandemic, there will be limited seating. Burial to follow at the Santa Cruz Cemetery in El Llano.

The family has entrusted the care of their loved one to Rivera Family Funeral Home of Espanola. Please visit www.riverafamilyfuneralhome.com to share you condolences, stories, and pictures.