Families and friends honor New Mexico musician killed in Ruidoso fires

RUIDOSO, NM – The Pearson family held on for hours, believing their father – Patrick Pearson – would call as soon as he got cell reception again.

Instead of a call from him, there was a knock on her door late Tuesday night from the New Mexico State Police.

“He was one of the best singers in New Mexico. Anyone he played with would tell you the same thing,” said Zach Pearson and Hilary Mallak, Patrick’s children.

His voice was unmistakable, and Patrick Pearson’s children say his world revolved around music. Zach says he moved from band to band, making a name for himself over the decades.

“I think it must have been a gig that brought him to Ruidoso and he literally never left,” Hilary said.

Hilary says he lived there for years, gave concerts and enjoyed the simple life.

“I think every entertainer just wanted to make people happy,” Hilary said.

Her concern for her father began Monday when news spread about the rapidly spreading South Fork Fire.

“We just didn’t think it would be as bad as it really was,” Hilary said.

They both tried to check on him, but before they heard from him, cell service went out.

“We were hopeful all day. No one could reach anyone. So it wasn’t so bad at first until the evening came,” Hilary said.

When they lost that hope.

“The state police showed up at my door and they told me he had been found. And sure enough, he was gone,” Zach said.

Patrick lived at the Swiss Chalet Hotel in Ruidoso. KOB 4 crews captured video on Tuesday showing the hotel burning to the ground.

State police told the Pearsons they found Patrick’s body next to a tree outside the hotel, meaning he had tried to evacuate after his ride out of the village broke down.

“He was in a walker. He was trying to get away and was running across the parking lot. I guess the smoke inhalation and everything else was too much for him so he just collapsed,” Zach said.

They say the shock and dismay are not over yet.

“You never think it’s going to happen to you. You never know how bad a situation is until you actually experience it,” Zach said.

Thousands of his neighbors and fans are also affected.

“A lot of people know him, and I think we underestimated how many people know him,” Hilary said.

Thousands responded to the family’s post about this incredible update.

“It’s not a good feeling. It’s not something I would wish on anyone,” Zach said.

Since this was very unexpected, the Pearson family has set up a GoFundMe page.

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