Beloved brother and father, Ernesto Cerpa Villarruel, a longtime resident of Detroit, Michigan, passed away on September 19, 2026 at the age of 72. Ernesto was born in Ocotlan, Jalisco, Mexico, on August 16, 1954. Ernesto chose the path of a journeyman and was an early pioneer of his trade for other Latinos that followed. He loved afro-cuban (salsa) and Latin music and was an accomplished percussionist. From his early days performing with the local band “Los Barrios”, to his final stint performing with “The Santana Project”, Ernesto brought commitment and joy to his live performances.
During his beloved mother’s final years struggling with Alzheimer’s disease, Ernesto selflessly dedicated his life to her primary care and his stated goal of keeping her in her own home and not in a nursing home. His sacrifice and love for his mother inspired admiration and respect from his siblings.
Ernesto is survived by his three sons, Ernesto Alejandro Villarruel, Antonio Edwardo Villarruel and Emilio David Villarruel; three grandchildren; Ernesto Alejandro Villarruel, Cesar Bautista and Delianna Marie and his siblings Nemesio Villarruel, Francisco Javier Villarruel (Maria del Rufugio), Maria de Jesus Villarruel-Vazquez (Miguel), Arturo Villarruel (Patricia), Rafael C. Villarruel (Evelyn) and Raquel Thueme (Tracy).
A Memorial Mass will take place at 9:30 am on Friday, October 16, 2026 at St. Aiden Catholic Church, 17500 Farmington Road, Livonia, MI., 48152. Ernesto’s family will receive visitors on Thursday, October 15, 2026, from 4:00 pm until 8:00 pm, with a Rosary at 7:00 pm.
