On March 31, 2017, Paul Joseph Apodaca was laid to rest at Fort Logan National Cemetery in Denver, Colorado with a three volley salute as a fitting tribute to his twenty-five year career in the Navy. He passed away at home in Champaign on March 21st, after a lingering illness.

Paul, also known as Ron to his family in Denver, was born on June 9, 1936 to Sadie and Paul Apodaca. He joined the Navy at the early age of seventeen and fought in both Korea and Vietnam. A "Mustang", he rose through the ranks to become a Lieutenant. Paul was instrumental in the recommission of the WW II battleship Missouri and others.

He is survived by his wife; Deni Apodaca and puppy dog Sugar who was a member of the trio. They were all best friends. I'm sure Paul will meet all his beloved pets at the Rainbow Bridge in heaven.

Also surviving are his children Paul Thomas Reyes Apodaca and Rosanne Yvette Apodaca both of San Diego, California, Nadine Annette Zborowski of Detroit, Michigan and Cheryl Jean Martella of Dallas, Texas and Beth (Deceased), seven grandchildren and five great grandchildren. He taught his sons and daughters by example. Honor and integrity were the traits of a man. He was never happier than when one of his children would display such characteristics.

Also surviving are his brother; Ben Apodaca of Long Beach, California and sisters; Shirley Revria and Leslie Duran of Denver, Colorado.

A proud Native American, he would often carry on the storytelling tradition of Indian folklore wearing his chieftain feathers, until a feather became the logo often used in his writings. He was a poet and authored stories about the Southwest. No one told a good joke better, even if it was told again and again - for the punchline would often change.

Paul was a remarkable person. A Renaissance man who travelled a world that no longer exists, so intelligent, so humorous, so compassionate.

He was an avid golfer and taught Deni how to play the game. An old Cubs fan, he also enjoyed watching football - the San Diego Chargers and the Denver Broncos. He could be seen on Sunday afternoon wearing his San Diego Charges ball cap and Broncos tee shirt simultaneously.

Paul loved the music of Frank Sinatra as well as Merle Haggard and Willie Nelson. Paul could often be heard singing karaoke at the VFW hall. Now he can be heard in the angel's choir singing Amazing Grace.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Champaign-Urbana Humane Society or your local VFW.

Condolences may be offered at www.rennerwikoffchapel.com.