Ernesto Valenzuela

Ernesto Valenzuela, Captain US Navy, Retired - 92 - Born November 11, 1929 in El Paso, Texas. Dad ascended to heaven June 8, 2022; preceded by the love of his life, his wife of 68 years, Hilda. Dad is survived by children Patricia (Ron), Ernesto (Ana Maria), Hilda Jeanette, and Victor Hugo (Amabilia); grandchildren Jason, Nicole Maria, Ana Teresa, Angelica, and Luci; and great-grandson Elliott.

Dad had an amazing life! Born in El Paso, but taken immediately to Chihuahua, Mexico by his mother when the Great Depression began. He studied in Mexico, but was determined to come to the US, so at the age of 14, he crossed illegally at the Puente Negro. When he visited his US family, he learned he was a US citizen. With the support of his uncle Don Ernesto Acosta, he was immediately enrolled in night school to learn English and worked by day at La Sorpresa Grocery. At the age of 16, and prepared to make a better future, he joined the Merchant Marines. He studied, worked his way up aboard ships from baker to boatswain Chief Petty Officer, and learned to navigate ships around the world using his trusty sextant. He served aboard several Merchant Marine U.S. Army transports, such as freighters and C-4 type vessels. He was present during the invasion of Inchon, Hungnam, and Wonsan, Korea in 1950. While serving in the Maritime Service, he attended and graduated from the United States Maritime School in Sheepshead Bay, New York in 1951. During the 1950’s, Ernesto served on various freighter and passenger ships with the Moore McCormack Shipping Lines as a 3rd and 2nd Mate Officer. The shipping lines provided arms and munitions to the French in Vietnam. Dad’s many years in the Merchant Marines also allowed him to test his mettle as a Golden Gloves boxer.

During leave in 1953, dad traveled to Chihuahua, Mexico to visit his family. It was through a store window that he saw a beautiful woman, went in with his usual charisma, and tried to make small talk. On Saturday, during Holy Week, they both attended a traditional dance. Ernesto and Hilda married January 17, 1954. He gave up the Merchant Marines to remain home with his wife when their first child was born.

Together they opened El Colorado Grocery (dad’s nickname due to his red hair) in El Segundo Barrio. He applied immediately and was commissioned as an Ensign in the US Naval Reserve. Over the years, he served in many positions: Training Officer, Administrative Officer, Executive Officer and Commanding Officer of three different commands. He also served as the Commandant Readiness Representative, as the Inspector General, and as the El Paso and Recruiting District Council Chairman – Southwest. He continued his studies in order to move up the ranks until he achieved the rank and retired as a Navy Captain.

While running a store and studying for Navy exams, dad also pursued his dream to sing opera. His beautiful baritone voice allowed him to sing with the opera company and students at The University Civic Opera of Texas Western College and UTEP, and at Ft. Bliss. He sang the roles of Prince Danilo (The Merry Widow), Valentin (Faust), Scarpia (Tosca), the lead role in Don Giovanni, Amonasro (Aida), Emile de Becque (South Pacific), Escamillo (Carmen), and many more in various operas. He was also invited to be the master of ceremonies for various talent shows and XEJ TV and Radio in Cd. Juarez. As the consummate entertainer, dad was known for singing “Granada” by Agustin Lara at local restaurants and loved to bid everyone “buona notte” (good night) in full baritone voice as he left the venue. What makes this even more amazing, is that dad was never able to read sheet music.

Like most Naval Reservists, Captain Valenzuela held down a full-time job; first at Dickshire and then at Terk Distributing Company, Inc. Again, he worked his way up the ladder to Vice President and became a one of the top sellers of Schlitz Beer and other Joseph Schlitz products. These top sales earned him prizes which included trips around the world. Mom and dad enjoyed trips to Rome, the Middle East, various cruises, Mexico, Hawaii, and the Caribbean. He worked at Terk for 28 years, followed by stints as General Manager at the local 7-Up bottling plant, and as Diplomatic Relations Manager at UETA. From this career, he moved into real estate where his skills quickly earned him awards and recognition for his high sales.

While celebrating his 80th birthday, dad announced he was going to retire. Needless to say, none of us believed him! Ernesto Valenzuela dedicated his life to ensure his wife and children were taken care of. Daddy, you achieved this and ALL your dreams. Your wonderful stories will be missed by many friends and family as you rest peacefully in our Lord's loving arms. Duerma con los angelitos, daddy. You and mom are together, again.

Funeral arrangements for Ernesto Valenzuela have been scheduled for Tuesday, July 12th at Funeraria del Angel Central, 3839 Montana, beginning with the Rosary at 10:30 am. Funeral Mass will be held at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church (on Hueco) 11:45 am. Burial will be held at Ft. Bliss National Cemetery at 1 pm. Dad supported many charities. In lieu of flowers, our family will appreciate your donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (mom’s favorite).

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.FunerariaDelAngelCentral.com for the Valenzuela family.