Paul Michael Valencia passed away unexpectedly in Albuquerque, New Mexico. At the age of 57, he had so much more life to live. Mike was loved by many and there is no way to measure how much he meant to those around him. Mike was a gift to all those he encountered, with his humble, loving soul and big heart. Mike was thrown many curve balls in life, but despite this he was resilient and determined to overcome the obstacles and become the man we all knew and loved. 

As a child, Mike participated in baseball and wrestling. He placed third in state in wrestling for Del Norte High School, where he graduated from in 1983. He worked and retired from UPS after 33 years. He was one of the few that received the distinguished title "The Circle of Honor" from UPS. He enjoyed spending time with his pride and joy, his two sons, Thomas and Michael. Mike loved to fish and camp in Pecos, New Mexico with his sons, where his father, Clemente, was born. One of his proudest, most profound, moments was visiting the beaches of Normandy, including Utah Beach, where his father, his hero, fought during World War II. Mike was a life-long Pittsburg Steelers fan, fulfilling a fan's dream of attending several Steelers games with his sons. He loved his Cobra Shelby Mustang, and regularly attended the Mustang Club, loved spending time in his yard feeding the finches and his turtles, and he found comfort and solace during the Pandemic with his beloved dog, Paco, who was his constant companion.  

He is preceded in death by his parents Clemente and Margaret Valencia; Brothers, Joseph and Brian Valencia; and brother-in-law Donald Martinez. Mike is survived by his two sons; Thomas (Velia) Valencia; their children, Estrella, Maria, and Jordan; son Michael (Jenn) Valencia; and son, Anthony; sisters Maureen Martinez and Sheila (Joe) Montano; godfather Louis Valencia; godson Joseph Montano, along with numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins.  

Thank you, Mike, for the memories. We will forever hold you in our hearts and grieve your loss.  

"It takes the whole of life to learn how to live." 

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, December 10, 2022, 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. at View Event Center, 1550 Tramway Blvd NE, ABQ, NM 87112.