Leonard Dean Tapia

Leonard Dean Tapia of Conchas Dam, New Mexico passed away unexpectedly on December 4, 2025 at Dan C. Trigg Memorial Hospital in Tucumcari, NM at age 69. He was born September 8, 1956 in Tucumcari to Vicente and Cornelia Tapia.

Leonard spent his childhood in Pastura and Glenrio, NM and graduated from San Jon High School in 1975. He spent his working career with Broce Construction in Tucumcari; Texas Longhorn II Service Station in Glenrio; Quay Auto Parts, Napa, and the City of Tucumcari; and finally with the New Mexico State Parks at Conchas Dam, NM as a Park Tech and Waste Water Operator.

Leonard married Linda Yost on June 9, 1979, and they made their home at Conchas Dam. They raised three children – Christopher, Matthew, and Amanda. He enjoyed spending time with his family boating, fishing, swimming, camping and doing anything related to the outdoors. Leonard was a hard worker and always maintained his quiet, kind, and genuinely good-hearted nature. He was always willing and able to lend a helping hand. He was involved in local organizations such as the Conchas Dam Lion’s Club, the Conchas Dam Volunteer Fire Department, and the American Legion.

Leonard worked for NM State Parks at Conchas Dam until his retirement in 2010. After retirement, he worked alongside his son, Matthew, as a boat and auto mechanic, continuing to serve the community and park visitors.

Leonard is survived by Linda Tapia, his loving wife of 46 years and his three children: Christopher (Lori Page) Tapia of Tucumcari, Matthew Tapia of Conchas Dam, and Amanda Tapia of Pueblo, Colorado. He is also survived by his two grandchildren Arian Tapia and Chloie Tapia of Tucumcari, who were the light of his life. Leonard is also survived by four siblings: Darla (Bobby) Alarcon of Tucumcari; Dennis Tapia of Colorado Springs, Colorado; Cecilia (Tommy) Cordova of Tucumcari, and Mary Rose (Max) Jimenez of Tucumcari. Additionally, he leaves behind numerous extended family members and friends.

Leonard was preceded in death by his parents, Vicente Tapia and Cornelia (Aragon) Tapia; his brother Louis Tapia; his paternal grandparents, Antonio and Eloisa Tapia; and his maternal grandparents, Sirilio and Petrita Aragon.

The service honoring Leonard’s life will take place on Friday, December 12, 2025 at St. Anne’s Catholic Church in Tucumcari, NM. The rosary will be at 10:15 am with Mass to follow at 11:00 am. He will be laid to rest at Tucumcari Memorial Park immediately following.

Services are under the direction of Chavez Funeral Home of Santa Rosa, 923 S. Third St., Santa Rosa, NM 88435. 575-472-3369.