Ernest M. Lovato

On July 20, 2018, Ernesto passed away surrounded by all his children. He is survived by his wife of 75 years, Crucita Jaramillo Lovato, one sister, four children, five grandchildren, three greatgrandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

A lifetime resident of Albuquerque, he served in the US Army Air Corp during WWII and was a member of the famous 8th Air Force’s 100th Bomb Group, which was known as the Bloody Hundredth. During his military service he painted nose art on at least a dozen B-17s while stationed at Thorpe Abbotts, England during the war. One of his planes is on display in a Czech Republic Museum.

Crucita was the love of his life, at home and at work. For over forty years, Ernie and Crucita owned and operated a collection agency in Albuquerque and had clients from across the United States. Ernesto was a cheerful man who always had a "dicho" and a big smile. He loved music, art, and his beloved chocolate labrador, Mia. He will be sadly missed by all whose lives he touched.

The Lovato family would like to express deep gratitude to all the special people who cared for Ernesto and helped make the last years of his life joyful.

Services will be held Tuesday, July 24, 2018 at Annunciation Catholic Church, 2532 Vermont St NE, Albuquerque, NM. Viewing will be at 7:30 am, Rosary at 8:00 am, and Mass at 8:30 am A military burial will take place at 11:15 am at the Santa Fe National Cemetery.