Michael Wayne Tapia
( May 09, 1989 – June 01, 2023 )
Michael Wayne Tapia born May 19, 1989, passed away unexpectedly on June 1, 2023, in Raton, NM.
Michael graduated from Raton High School in 2007. After high school, he went to work at Rocky Mountain Metal, and was a line cook at All Season’s Family Restaurant, and NM Highway Department, during the widening of the Clayton highway. From there, he went to put up solar panels in the solar field in Springer, NM., Taos, N.M., and California, which was his favorite because he liked the drive. When that ended, he went to work with Valle Del Sol and guided elk, turkey, deer, and antelope hunts with Dave and Mikey Garrett. Then onto his most recent position with Team Builders as a Family support specialist/adult wrap-around case manager. While at Team Builders, he took some college classes at Trinidad State College for nutrition.
Though Michael left this world far too soon, he left it a better place. His laugh was contagious, and his smile was radiant, sweet, and kind. He loved so deeply and cared so fully. This was noticeable to all that knew him and worked alongside him. He had grown into a loving young man who would do anything for anyone.
Taps, as most people knew him, loved the outdoors. He loved the mountains, fishing, hunting, and shooting his compound bow but his newfound passion was riding his mountain bikes. He would always take his fur baby Zeus with him on many of his adventures. He rode with a group of men in Trinidad, CO from Ultimate Sports, which he enjoyed. Taps started entering mountain bike events, including the 2022 Purgatory 4 Adventure Relay in Raton, NM. His last race was the Enduro race in Glorieta, NM.
Michael is preceded in death by his grandfather James R. Spargo. He is survived by his mother, Donna Spargo, and companion Mack Saeger of Raton, sister Vanna Tapia, nephew Christian Fanelli, and niece Paityn Tapia, all of Raton, NM, Grandmother Kathy Spargo of Raton, and several aunts, uncles, cousins, and numerous friends.
Michael loved his family, friends, and co-workers. A light from our family is gone, a voice that we loved is gone, and a place is vacant in our hearts which can never be replaced. Although we are apart, Michael “Taps” Tapia, you will live on with your smile, your laugh, and your love for each of us.
Services will be held at the First Baptist Church in Raton, NM on July 8, 2023, at 11:00 a.m., with dinner to follow in the fellowship hall of the First Baptist Church.
Arrangements for Michael Wayne Tapia “Taps” are under the direction of Alderette Pomeroy Funeral Home.
