It is with deep sadness we share the passing of a remarkable man, Michael Bruce Popescu, 74, of Albuquerque, New Mexico. Michael passed away on March 17 after a brief illness. He was born on August 28, 1951, in Ellwood City, Pennsylvania.

He graduated from Clovis High School, and he went on to Eastern New Mexico University where he received a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology and Psychology in 1976. During his college years, he was a member Pi Kappa Alpha and served as Vice President of Students Affairs from 1974-1975, with the primary responsibility of serving as President of the Senate. During this time, he formed many friendships and memories that would stay with him throughout his life.

Michael devoted his career to helping others find their voice - both literally and figuratively - working as a speech-language pathologist with Plains Regional Medical Center (PRMC) and Clovis Municipal Schools. At PRMC Michael established and facilitated a successful stroke support group that helped many individuals and families. For more than 30 years, he also shared his love of learning as an adjunct instructor at Clovis Community College, where he taught psychology courses and brought laughter to many through his stand-up comedy class. His impact reached far beyond the classroom and clinic, shaping lives in lasting and meaningful ways.

Michael was known for being funny and quick witted, always ready with a perfectly timed joke or a remark that could lighten up a room and bring a smile to those around him. He was endlessly curious about the world, finding joy in books, movies, golf, travel and discovery. Among his many interests he especially enjoyed coin collecting, hiking, and exploring in search of fossils. Michael always looked forward to Christmas. He loved collecting ornaments, decorating and spending time with family and friends. Devoted to his family and his faith nothing brought him greater happiness than spending time with his family and grandchildren.

He was proceeded in death by his parents, John and Gladys Popescu; his sister and brother-in-law, Carol and Harold Johnson; his stepson, Justin Edens; and his nephew-in-law, Todd Hicks. He is survived by his wife, Caroline Popescu; his stepson, Brandon Rodarte; his sons, Christopher and Nicholas Popescu; his daughter-in-law, Tonja Edens; his grandchildren Liz, Riley, Caden and Journey; his nieces, Cindy(Rocky) and Lori Hicks; his nephew Craig(Kim) Johnson; his great-nephews, Blake(Tamara) and Garret Hicks; his great-great-nieces Makinzie(Devin) Glascock and Rylee Hicks; and great-great-nephews Bodie and Talon Hicks.

Mike's life was one of giving -- of knowledge, of laughter and of love. He leaves behind a legacy carried in the voices he helped shape, the minds he inspired and the family who will forever hold him close in their hearts. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.

A graveside service will be held at Texico Cemetery in Texico, NM on Friday, March 27, at 1:00 pm.