Ernest "Ernie" Guerrero Jr.

Beloved as a husband & father, and so much more, he leaves behind a legacy of devoted service, unwavering love for his family, and steadfast faith.

Ernie was born on September 21, 1948, in Alhambra, California, to the late Ernest Guerrero Sr. and Opal Louise Guerrero. Growing up in Alhambra alongside his brother during the 1960s, Ernie’s early years were full of life and colorful memories. On July 6, 1968, he married his high school sweetheart, Peggy Ann W. Guerrero, in Temple City, California, marking the beginning of a lifelong partnership centered on faith, devotion, and mutual support.

Shortly after their marriage, Ernie answered the call to serve his country, joining the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War and serving stationed in Guam. He was honorably discharged with the rank of Staff Sergeant. Following his military service, Ernie pursued his passion for aviation, earning an Associate's Degree and numerous flight ratings, including his Commercial Pilot's License. He dedicated his professional career to aviation, serving as a Captain for American Airlines and as a Federal Air Marshal before his retirement.

In June 1990, Ernie and his family relocated to Northern Colorado, where he enjoyed caring for his land and driving his tractor during his retirement years. An avid outdoorsman throughout his life, Ernie found great joy in hunting and fishing.

Above all else, Ernie loved his God, his family, and his country—in that exact order. Though he could be tough and was often looked to as a pillar of strength and source of solid advice, he had a soft, kind heart and loved to tease with the best of them. His family always knew without a doubt how deeply he loved, protected, and fiercely defended them.

His legacy carries on in the lives of the family he leaves behind. Ernie is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Peggy Ann W. Guerrero; his children, Tina Louise Guerrero Simmons and Stephen "Jake" Jacob Guerrero (Kyanna E. Guerrero); and his brother, Stephen A. Guerrero; as well as many dear friends and extended family members. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest Sr. and Opal Louise Guerrero, and by his son-in-law, Jeffrey S. Simmons.

Ernie will be honored with a Military Committal Service on Wednesday, August 19, 2026 at 2pm at Fort Logan National Cemetery in Denver, Colorado. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, August 22, 2026 at 11am at Loveland Church of Christ.

Along with flowers, contributions in Ernie’s memory are welcome to Loveland Church of Christ, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Bear Valley Bible Institute (Bear Valley Church of Christ), or Shriners Hospitals for Children.

Treasured memories of Ernie and words of condolence for his family are welcome at resthavencolorado.com.