ERNESTO D. VILLA

July 24, 1944 – Jan. 12, 2023

It is with a sad an heavy heart that we announce that our brother Ernesto "Ernie" D. Villa was unexpectedly called to our Lord's house. We know that he will find peace and joy tending our Lords celestial gardens.

Ernie was born to Joe R. and Concepcion Villa on July 24, 1944. He attended grade school up to the high school in Calexico. While in high school, he was active and participated in many track events, winning several medals. He was proud to be a Calexico Bulldog.

At a very young age, Ernie developed a strong work ethic. He worked at George's Market with Chayito Woo, who worked odd jobs. Later, when he finished high school, he went to work with different agricultural companies. In 1971, he went to work with Shopping Bag. By 1974, the store had changed it's name to Fazio's. Then in 1977, the store was renamed to Super Shopping, with Frank Moreno, Ray Lopez, and George Montano as the owners. He continued to work there until he retired due to his health.

Ernie was a hard-working individual. He was a kind, generous person with a heart of gold and a great sense of humor. He liked to joke around and reminisce about the good old days.

Ernie loved to garden. He enjoyed planting flowers and vegetable gardens. He would plant gardens at home and at his 3 nieces' homes. He also enjoyed cruising around to different agricultural fields to watch the different crops being grown. In his younger days, he also enjoyed canal fishing.

Ernie was preceded in death by his parents, brothers: Frank D. Villa, and Marcelo D. Villa; brother-in-law, Felix Arce Jr., and niece, Rosie V. Pico. He is survived by his sisters: Anita (Sergio) Cobarruvia, Rosie (James) Chew, Helen Arce; and brother, Ruben D. Villa; numerous nieces, nephews, grandnieces/nephews; his companion, Maria V. Marquez; and her children and grandchildren, whom he loved dearly and who loved him.

Rosary will take place at 10:30 a.m. Mass will be at 11 a.m. on February 23, 2023, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in Calexico. Interment to follow at Mountain View Cemetery.