It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of our husband, father, grandfather, and brother, John Urteaga, affectionately known as “Homer” and Grandpa Homer. John joined our Lord in Heaven Saturday, June 21, 2025, after an 11-year battle with cancer. John was a beloved husband, father, brother, doting grandfather, and friend to everyone he came across. He is preceded in death by his parents, Roberto and Catalina Urteaga.
Left to treasure his memory are his wife of 55 years, his high school sweetheart, Martha; his son, Chris, and his wife, Olga; his son, Steven, and his wife, Anna; and his son, Matthew, and his canine companion, Eddy. His 8 grandchildren whom he cherished, Audrey, Robbie, Carter, Sophia, Mikey, Krystelle, Ezra, and Will. His three brothers, Robert Jr, Raul, and Larry, along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
John was born on June 24, 1948, and was a lifelong resident of El Paso. He attended Jefferson High School and graduated with the class of 1967. After graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and fought overseas in the Vietnam War, where he was awarded the Bronze Star for his valor in combat. After his service, he attended the University of Texas at El Paso, where he worked towards a degree in education. He then found his passion as a visual artist for department stores, The Popular, Dillard's, and J.C. Penny. His artistic skills were sought after and recognized throughout the city as he also worked on displays for Broadway shows, the ice capades, boutiques, as well as decorations for weddings, quinceañeras, and other celebrations. His artistry took him to work on fashion shows for designer Zondra Rhodes, of London, England.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude towards his doctors, Dr. Aloba, Dr. Alluri, and Dr. Molina Paredes, for the care he received all these years. We would like to give a special thank you to our niece, Jennifer Robles, and the nursing staff at Hospice of El Paso CCC for their comfort, care, and dignity they gave him.
”Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure. You are loved beyond words, and missed beyond measure.” -Unknown
A gathering for John will be held Tuesday, July 8, 2025 from 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM at Crestview Funeral Home, 1462 North Zaragoza Rd., El Paso, Texas 79936. A rosary will occur Tuesday, July 8, 2025 from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM, 1462 North Zaragoza Rd., El Paso, Texas 79936. A memorial mass will occur Tuesday, July 8, 2025 at 1:00 PM at Saint Mark Catholic Church, 11700 Pebble Hills Blvd, El Paso, Texas 79936. A graveside service will occur Tuesday, July 8, 2025 at 2:30 PM at Fort Bliss National Cemetery, 5200 Fred Wilson Ave, El Paso, Texas 79906.
