Ernesto Marroquin

Ernest graduated from Calallen High School in 1986. An athlete at heart and a fierce competitor, he gave his best effort in everything he did—whether esports, checkers, bowling, or a friendly game of HORSE. He proudly represented his school as a Special Olympian at the state level, an achievement that reflected his determination, courage, and love of competition. Born with Down syndrome, Ernest never allowed limitations to define him and was fearless in trying new things.

He shared a special love of fishing with his father and enjoyed outdoor adventures. Ernest also loved to play football and even tried roller skatin; always eager for the next experience.

Ernest’s greatest passions were sports, dancing, and singing. A devoted Dallas Cowboys fan, he loved Texas professional sports teams and often knew facts and statistics that surprised everyone. Whether at home or at social gatherings, he was always ready to dance—breakdancing, moonwalking, the worm, and especially cumbias. Music was a constant companion, and he was often seen with his headset on, singing along to favorites such as Ozzy Osbourne, Selena Quintanilla, Jennifer Peña, George Strait, Garth Brooks, and Michael Jackson.

Ernest will be remembered for his infectious smile and warm hugs, which he shared freely with everyone he met.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Lucia and Joe Marroquin, and his brothers Joe Marroquin III, Oscar Marroquin, and Jesse Marroquin.

He is survived by his sisters Linda Sano (Laveen, AZ), Anita Valderrama, Telma Villa, Belinda Noyola (Corpus Christi, TX), and Marie Godbehere (Waddell, AZ), and his brothers Arnold Marroquin (Garden Ridge, TX), David Marroquin, and Rene Marroquin (Corpus Christi, TX).

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the New Century Hospice team for their compassionate care and support. Special thanks to Bertha Young and Jesse Treviño for their immediate assistance, Lynette Núñez and Natalie Salinas for their attentive nursing care, Lisa Dibble and Roxanne Mathis for their guidance and support, and Zerelda Marroquin for helping connect the family with the New Century team.

A visitation will be held at Funeraria Del Angel, located at 549 Cheyenne, Corpus Christi, TX 78405, on February 19, 2026, from 4:30 pm to 9:00 pm. A Holy Rosary will take place at the same venue on February 19, 2026, from 7:00 pm to 7:30 pm. Continued visitation will occur on February 20, 2026, from 9:00 am to 9:45 am at the same location.

The Funeral Mass will be conducted at Holy Family Catholic Church, located at 2509 Nogales St, Corpus Christi, TX 78416, on February 20, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am.

The committal service will be held at Memory Gardens Funeral Home, located at 8200 Old Brownsville Road, Corpus Christi, TX 78415, on February 20, 2026, from 11:30 am to 12:00 pm.