1. Payton Timm Stephen Castro
2. June 2, 1993 – September 16, 2026
3. 
   

The family of Payton Timm Stephen Castro is saddened to announce his passing on September 16, 2026, in Rio Rancho, New Mexico, at the age of 33.

Payton was born on June 2, 1993, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. He was a 2010 graduate of Sue Cleveland High School in Rio Rancho, New Mexico.

Payton was preceded in death by his grandfather, Timm Rennecker, and his sister, Kiersten LaValle.

Payton was married to his wife, Alejandra Apodaca-Dozal, for 12 years. He is survived by his parents, Jose and Joelle LaValle of Castle Rock, Colorado; his brothers, Ricardo and Jacob Castro of Rio Rancho, New Mexico, Joel LaValle of Albuquerque, New Mexico, Timm and Nick LaValle of Castle Rock, Colorado; and his sisters, Rickelle Goodwin of Fairfield, California, and Marianna LaValle of Castle Rock, Colorado. He is also survived by his grandparents in Grand Junction, Iowa, and Albuquerque, New Mexico, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. Of course, he is also survived by his beloved dog, Chopo “Chopalito.”

Payton found his passion in cooking. After just one year of employment at the Suites at Rio Vista, he was promoted to a Cook position, where he was able to do what he loved.

Payton was kind, loving, and had a heart of gold. He was funny, with a young face but an old spirit, and he had a way of making people smile with his unique sense of humor. Whenever someone said something exciting instead of “wow,” “amazing,” or “OMG,” Payton would simply respond, “Well, good night.” If he saw a cute dog, a child, or an older gentleman, he would affectionately call them “a little fella.”

There will never be another Payton.

As the oldest of eight siblings, Payton held a special place in his family. He loved to cook and had a deep appreciation for his elders from a very young age. He loved cars, especially lowriders and Mustangs, and music was always an important part of his life. In recent years, he even enjoyed country music. He proudly loved his Dallas Cowboys, win or lose, and he had a particular love for New Mexico hot chili. His grandparents in Iowa could tell you stories about how, at just four years old, Payton would drink hot chili sauce straight from the bottle when they took him to a restaurant.

And then there was Chopo—his beloved “Chop-a-lito,” who brought so much joy to his life.

Payton’s kindness, humor, love of family, appreciation for others, and unmistakable personality touched everyone who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

 “If love could have saved you, you would have lived forever.”

Payton's favorite verse from the Footprints in Sand ... "The Lord said that's because I carried you"