Patrick Pearson, talented, popular musician, died in the fire in Ruidoso
The man who died in the Ruidoso wildfires is remembered by his loved ones as a devoted father and talented musician.
Patrick Pearson, 60, was found dead on the side of the road near the Swiss Chalet Motel, 1451 N. Mechem Road, according to New Mexico State Police.
“He is irreplaceable,” said musician Brendan Dawes. “His voice was his trademark, it was authentic. He also had a heart of gold.”
Pearson knew his life could be in danger from the fire and was ready to flee, but the flames overwhelmed him before help could arrive, family and friends said.
He was found with multiple burns and died from his injuries, police said. Pearson is the first confirmed death related to the South Fork Fire and the Salt Fire.
Pearson was a popular musician in Ruidoso and had one of the best country voices in the Southwest, his bandmates said. He had performed with the Brendan Dawes Band.
More: The South Fork Fire continues to rage near Ruidoso. This is what the fire looks like in NM
Dawes said he last spoke to Pearson on the phone at 4:07 p.m. on Monday, June 17.
“He told me he was packed and ready to evacuate,” he said. “He was waiting for his ride. That was the last time I spoke to him.”
Pearson broke his leg and is recovering from surgery, Dawes said.
Craig Rivera also performed with Pearson; the two have known each other for over three decades. The first time Rivera saw Pearson perform on a talent show, he still cried, he said
“He was just a kid and he was on stage with his twin brother,” he said. “The harmony between the siblings was amazing. Those two kids blew everyone away.”
Offstage, Pearson had a genuine love for people, Rivera said.
Pearson’s son Zach fondly remembers his father strumming an acoustic guitar while singing with the family at home.
“He was incredible,” said Zach Pearson. “You could really feel the emotion when he sang. Hearing my dad’s voice is something I will always miss.”
Pearson’s family has set up a GoFundMe campaign for unexpected funeral expenses: Hilary Mallak Fundraiser: The Cowboy Rides Away (gofundme.com)
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