Apolonio Padilla

Our beloved Polo, we gather today to celebrate the life and legacy of a man whose spirit shone brightly in our community-Apolonio "Polo" Padilla. Born on February 28th, 1946, in the vibrant heart of Mexico City, Polo's journey on this Earth came to a peaceful close on November 26th, 2024, in the warm embrace of El Paso, Texas. Polo, a man of deep faith and boundless love, inspired joy to all who knew him. He walked through life with the grace of the Lord, embodying the truth of the scripture, "Well done, good and faithful servant" (Matthew 25:23). He was a devoted husband to his cherished wife of 60 years, Juana Isela Padilla (Martinez). Together they raised a family that became his pride and joy. Though his heart was heavy with the loss of his sons, Jose Apolonio "Polin" Padilla and Javier Padilla his love never wavered, and he found support in the laughter and embrace of his beloved daughters Angelica Maria Biniam (Padilla) and Karina Padilla Rubio. Later gaining support from his son-in-law Samuel Rubio.
Polo's legacy continues through the vibrant lives of his grandchildren-Victor Terrazas Jr., Priscilla Noemi Terrazas, Ismael Monreal III, Brittney Celeste Monreal, Isaah Monreal, Iris Azalie Padilla, Sammantha Kassandra Rubio, Gideon I. Biniam, and Samuel David Jr. Rubio. His great-grandchildren-Neriah Shiloh Ventura, Josiah Elijah Terrazas, Ezekiel Isaiah Terrazas, Ethan Jayden De La Cruz, Nathaniel Abraham De La Cruz, Zachariah Jeremiah Terrazas, Hope Skylar Flores, and Alayna Jane Palacios-will grow up hearing tales of their great-grandfather's warmth and passion for life.
Polo was the son of the late Jose Padilla Cuevas and Francisca Padilla Santillan Hernandez. He was a brother to many, sharing life's journey with the late Mario Padilla, alongside Alberto Padilla, Francisco Padilla, Julia Orozco, Maria Martinez, Gloria Portillo, and Jose Padilla Jr. His family was his stronghold, his foundation, and his endless source of pride. A man of diligence and enterprise, Polo owned and operated A&P Carpet Services, where he not only sold and installed carpets but also wove the fabric of community and fellowship. He learned the value of hard work at a young age, working alongside his father at La Panaderia La Oregon Bakery. His hands were those of a creator, whether crafting pastries or laying carpets, and his heart was always turned towards service, especially within the church he loved and served for over 30 years, Vino Nuevo.
Polo's passions were as rich and varied as the life he led. As a young boy, he played sports, soccer, and baseball. Later, as a man, he delighted in the simple pleasures of baking pastries, making his famous biscochos and delicious burritos, sharing his culinary creations with all who
crossed his path. Gordito, loving, persevering, caring, friendly, hard worker, dedicated, courageous, smart, funny, and independent. These are the words that best capture the essence of Polo Padilla. To be in his presence was to feel the warmth of the sun on a cool day, to know that you were seen, heard, and valued. His laughter was a melody that echoed in the halls of the church and in the hearts of his family and friends. As we say farewell to our dear Polo, we are reminded of the words of the Apostle Paul: "For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain" (Philippians 1:21). Polo lived for Christ, and now he gains the eternal joy of His presence. Though we will miss him dearly, we rejoice in the knowledge that he is at peace, resting in the arms of our Savior. Let us carry forward the memory of Apolonio "Polo" Padilla, a man whose life was a testament to love, a symphony of service, and a dance of devotion. May his story inspire us to walk in love as he did, with open hearts and helping hands. Until we meet again, dear Polo, rest in the glory of the Lord. Amen."