Family and friends honor musician from Ruidoso who died in forest fires

RUIDOSO, NM – It has been more than two weeks since the Ruidoso fires broke out, causing unimaginable destruction and suffering for many families.

Two people died in the fires, including Patrick Pearson, a well-known musician who lived in Ruidoso.

His family and friends paid their respects at his funeral in Albuquerque on Wednesday evening.

“We were born and raised with his music. I actually got a USB stick today with his music from the last 30 years,” Pearson’s children said. “What excited him the most was seeing people come out onto the dance floor while he sang to dance and enjoy the music.”

Pearson lived at the Swiss Chalet Inn in Ruidoso. When the South Fork Fire raged through town, he couldn’t escape fast enough. State police say they found Pearson’s body next to a tree in front of the hotel.

“It was a whirlwind. It was a rollercoaster ride and exhausting,” Pearson’s children said.

It was an unimaginable loss for his family. But they didn’t know how many people would share their grief.

“Then to see the great love and support and I think all the hearts of the people that he really touched with his music and his voice, I think it really lifted us up.”

A distinctive voice that will be missed by the community but lives on in the hearts of her loved ones.

“Now we appreciate it more, we like to hear his voice. It keeps us connected to him somehow.”