Christopher Brandon Sumruld

Christopher Brandon Sumruld, age 51, passed away on November 14, 2024. He is preceded in death by his mother, Janene Haldeman, father-in-law, Jacob Baca, and brother-in-law Jonathan Baca.

A prolific musician and songwriter, Chris recorded music both solo and as a part of several different bands over the years. With his studio Mannydog Records, he recorded not only his own music, but also recorded albums for the Disclaimers, Adam Hooks & his Hangups, and Lost Lingo. One of the tracks that he worked on for Lost Lingo’s debut album received a New Mexico Music Award. You can listen to some of Chris’s music on his bandcamp page at chris-sumruld.bandcamp.com/music.

Chris had the amazing ability to pick up any skill on his own and quickly master it. Through mostly trial and error he became proficient in layout and publishing while working at the Roswell Daily Record, taught himself the intricacies of recording software to create and operate his own home studio, and became familiar with hardware and software to upgrade and troubleshoot computers for himself and others. His skill in construction and electrical is evident in every square inch of the home that he shared with his wife and daughter. There was almost no car maintenance or repair task that he wouldn’t tackle, and even when they seemed to be getting the better of him, he would persevere until they were completed.

Chris used his many skills working on rigging and sound for live music shows around the state, installing alarms and electronic control systems for commercial and residential properties, and working as a grip for film and television.

Chris enjoyed seeing concerts, dirt biking, and getting involved in his kids’ interests (skateboarding for Forrest, and horse jumping for Naura). He cared a great deal for his family and friends and did his best to be a good dad, husband, and friend.

Chris is survived by his wife, Margaret Sumruld, daughter, Naura Sumruld, son, Forrest Sumruld; father, Carl (Dianne) Sumruld; brothers, Michael (Deborah) Sumruld, Jody (Kristina) Sumruld, Cory (Stephanie Fonseca) Haldeman; mother-in-law, Mary Gueldenzoph; brother-in-law, Robert Baca, and many other friends and family members who love him and will miss him deeply. We were fortunate to have him in our lives and the world is a little colder now that he is gone.