Peter Donald Apodaca

Peter D. Apodaca, Sr., grew up in Riverton, Wyoming, and from those humble beginnings lived a life marked by resilience and extraordinary charm. He was a man shaped by hard work, personal growth, and an easy nature that made everyone feel welcomed in his presence.

With each season of life, he grew in steadfastness, softened in wisdom, deepened in love, and let faith and experience refine him into someone whose strength didn’t need to be loud to be felt. He was proud of the man he became, and so were we.

Peter was a son, father, brother, husband, uncle, cousin, grandfather, and dedicated partner. His relationships were rooted in humility and humor. You could count on him — whether you needed advice, a laugh, a beer, or someone who simply showed up.

He had a deep love for classic cars, and not just for their beauty or mechanics — but for what they represented: craftsmanship, care, and stories worth telling. For Peter, a well-loved car was like a well-lived life — not perfect, but full of character and worth the effort. Those cars weren’t just machines — they were a reflection of his appreciation for tradition, detail, and the beauty in hard work.

“What comes easy won’t last; what lasts won’t come easy.” He knew lasting things — love, family, character — took work, patience, and sacrifice. At every point in his life, he did the best he could with what he knew how to do. He gave his best, especially to those he loved.

Above all, Peter was born to be a grandfather — and he was an exceptional one. He made time, gave endless encouragement, and always had a kind word. To him, every one of us was a reason to be proud. His love was unconditional, and his support unwavering. He never missed a chance to say how proud he was of our accomplishments, no matter how small. In his eyes, we could do no wrong. While his pride in us never required earning, and his love asked nothing in return, it has been the greatest honor of our lives to make him proud.

Peter is survived by several siblings, his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren — each one carrying forward a part of the legacy he leaves behind. He also leaves behind countless stories, lessons, and quiet moments that will stay with us for a lifetime.

He will be missed deeply, but his life, his voice, his laughter, and his example live on in each of us, and in every act of faith, humor, patience, and love we pass forward in his name.