Lawrence A. Lovato

Lawrence Andrew Lovato, 70, of Costilla, New Mexico, passed away at home on April 22, 2026, with the love of his life by his side.

Born on February 2, 1956, in La Jara, Colorado, Lawrence was the son of Casilda and Demetrio Lovato. He was raised in Costilla, New Mexico, a place he loved deeply and proudly called home throughout his entire life.

On November 26, 1977, Lawrence married the love of his life and best friend, Veronica Lovato. Together, they built a beautiful life rooted in love, faith, hard work, and family. They raised three incredible sons, tended to their small ranch, and found joy in the simple, meaningful moments they shared side by side.

Lawrence was a man of many talents and unwavering dedication. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, rancher, fire chief, logger, woodworker, team roper, and respected community member. His commitment to service was evident in his more than 50 years with the Costilla Fire Department, where he began as a young volunteer at the age of 17. He proudly served as Fire Chief in Costilla for over 30 years, leading with strength, humility, and deep care for his community.

Lawrence’s skills were vast whether working the land for his cattle, logging in the mountains, crafting aspen furniture with his hands, or answering the call to serve others in times of need. He was known for his strong work ethic, wisdom, and willingness to help anyone at any time.

He was the life of the party, a jokester at heart, and someone who truly lived to make others smile and laugh. Even in the most serious of moments, Lawrence had a way of bringing light through humor, sparking joy and easing the hearts of all those around him. His presence was a gift, and his laughter will be deeply missed.

A man of deep faith, Lawrence held a strong and devoted Catholic faith that guided his life and carried him through his greatest challenges. He fought his battle with cancer with remarkable strength, bravery, and courage. Never losing his faith and facing each day with grace and resilience. His unwavering spirit was a testament to the strength he carried within and the faith he held so close.

Above all, he was a family man who cherished his role as a husband, father, and grandfather (Pampo), and whose love and guidance will live on through each of them.

He is preceded in death by his beloved parents; Demetrio Lovato, Casilda Lovato, and brother Andrew Lovato. He is survived by his loving wife, Veronica Lovato; his children, Lorenzo Lovato (Elyssa), Jose Lovato (Danielle), and Lucas Lovato (Benita); and his pride and joy, his grandchildren: Adrian, Angelica, Gabriella, Alyse, Andrew, Mila, and Luke. He also leaves behind his cherished godchildren, Anna, Sophia, Anna Marie, and John David; his beloved siblings; and numerous extended family members and very dear friends.

Funeral arrangements are as follows: The Rosary will be recited on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Costilla, New Mexico. The Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Costilla, with burial to follow at Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery.

Lawrence will be remembered for his strength, his kindness, his humor, and his unwavering faith. He was a light in the lives of many, and his legacy of love and service will live on forever. He will be deeply missed and forever loved.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” -2 Timothy 4:7

The family of Lawrence Andrew Lovato has entrusted the care of their loved one to the caring staff of DeVargas Funeral Home of Taos. www.devargastaos.com 1-866-657-4019