Key Takeaways
- Sixteen-year-old Owen Pagano, a versatile baseball player from V. Sue Cleveland High School in Rio Rancho, New Mexico, tragically passed away following an accident at Cochiti Lake.
- Memorial events include a celebration of life on Monday (7th) and a candlelight vigil on Wednesday (9th), as the community rallies around parents Cuyler and Sarah Pagano during this unimaginable loss.
- A GoFundMe campaign has raised over $15,000 toward its $26,000 goal to assist the family with funeral expenses, while a Meal Train has also been established to provide additional support.
The community of Rio Rancho, New Mexico, is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Owen Pagano, a 16-year-old student-athlete from V. Sue Cleveland High School, who tragically passed away following a devastating accident at Cochiti Lake.
Owen was a talented baseball player known for his dedication to the game and his presence on the Next Level National team.
Standing 5’11” and weighing 165 pounds, he played multiple positions, including RHP, 2B, 3B, OF, and SS, demonstrating his versatility and passion for the sport.
A Devastating Loss For The Community
Owen’s passing has left an unimaginable void in the hearts of his family, friends, teammates, and the Cleveland Storm community.
A close friend of the family expressed the depth of the tragedy, saying:
“Blake’s amazing teacher lost her 16-year-old son to a horrible accident on Saturday morning. Our hearts are shattered for her and her family. This is also Blake’s BFF’s older brother. To say this is a tragedy is an understatement. Our school community is devastated for our friend, her babies, along with all of her son’s Cleveland Storm friends and family.”
Via Facebook
Owen is survived by his parents, Cuyler and Sarah Pagano, who are leaning on the overwhelming support of friends, family, and the community during this unfathomable loss.
His father, Cuyler Pagano, announced upcoming memorial events to celebrate Owen’s life:
“For all those interested in attending, we are planning a celebration of life and wake on Monday evening (7th). We will have formal announcements on Wednesday. The little league is also hosting a candlelight vigil on Wednesday evening (9th) for the baseball community to come together. I appreciate all the thoughts, prayers, and messages from everyone. It shows how loved Owen was! ❤️🙏”
Via Facebook
His aunt, Cayla Pagano, shared her grief, writing:
“Saturday morning, we lost my 16-year-old nephew in the most unimaginable, horrific way. My family is completely heartbroken.”
Via Facebook
GoFundMe & Community Support
A GoFundMe campaign has been organized to assist the Pagano family with funeral expenses and financial relief during this devastating time.
The fundraiser has already raised over $15,000 toward its $26,000 goal.
The GoFundMe description states:
“It is with heavy hearts that we share the devastating loss of Owen, a bright and loving 16-year-old who was taken far too soon. Owen was a son, a brother, a friend, and a source of joy to everyone who knew him. His absence leaves an unimaginable void, and his family is now facing the unbearable pain of saying goodbye.”
Via GoFundMe
“No parent should ever have to endure the pain of losing a child. We want to come together as a community to support Sarah, Cuyler, and their family. Any contribution, big or small, will go directly toward ensuring they can focus on mourning their beloved son without the added stress of unexpected costs.”
Via GoFundMe
“If you cannot give financially, please keep the Pagano family in your thoughts and prayers, and share this fundraiser to help spread the word. Your love and support mean the world to them during this incredibly difficult time.”
Via GoFundMe
Additionally, a Meal Train has been set up to provide meals and gift cards for the family: Meal Train for the Pagano Family.
Owen Pagano’s passing is a devastating loss to everyone who knew him.
His love for baseball, his kind-hearted nature, and the strong bonds he built with friends and family will always be remembered.
As the community comes together to honor his memory, his family finds comfort in the overwhelming love and support surrounding them.
Owen’s legacy will continue to shine in the hearts of those he touched, both on and off the field.
Rest in peace, Owen Pagano!
