Matthew ‘Angel’ Portillo, 31, of Las Cruces, NM sadly departed our presence on Sunday, September 5, 2021. He will undoubtedly be greatly missed by so many. Angel was the son of Miguel Montoya and Victoria Portillo, both of Las Cruces, NM. He is survived by many who loved him, including his daughter, Klarissa, 8; his siblings, Michael (Alia) Portillo, Nikole Avila (Mateo Lopez), of Austin, TX, John (Desiree) Portillo, of Las Cruces, NM and Andrea, of Las Cruces, NM; his grandparents Lydia (Jerry) Avila, of Albuquerque, NM; his nieces and nephew, Zoey, Elora, and John Jr.; his two fur-daughters Belle and Georgia; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Angel was welcomed to heaven with open arms by his paternal grandparents, Jose (June 6, 2012) and Maria (November 27, 2015) Montoya.
Angel was born in Las Cruces on September 20, 1989 and graduated from Mayfield High School in 2008. He was a first team wrestler and varsity soccer player. Angel enjoyed being in the kitchen whipping up anything from his famous BBQ Chicken to his favorite Green Chicken Enchiladas. No matter how much he ate, his six-pack remained in tack. Angel was not only passionate in the kitchen, but he was also passionate about his family and friends. Angel was known for being selfless, having a heart of gold, and being able to light up any room he went into.
Angel was an active player and volunteer in the USSSA and USAC .25 Midget communities throughout Arizona, New Mexico and Texas. He spent most weekends out on the softball fields or in the pits at the racetrack. While at the racetrack, he was known as the Best Tire Guy for ZoZo Krazy and 4 Speed Racing teams. He was an amazing son, father, brother, uncle, cousin, tire guy and known as a best friend to many. Angel would never pass up the opportunity to make you laugh. Sometimes that included dancing and singing; other times it was something he did or said, but no matter what you could count on him to make you smile. He enjoyed all sports and was a die-hard 49er and Bulls fan. You could count on Angel to be up to speed with the latest ESPN news.
Services to be held on Friday, September 17, 2021, at 10:00 AM at Getz Funeral Home located at 1410 E Bowman Ave, Las Cruces, NM 88001 with a private reception to follow. The family has asked you to join them in Celebration of Angel’s life. Angel lit up any room he walked into, in honor, please wear bright and festive colors to help us celebrate Angel’s life.