Ernest Paul Vasquez

Loving father, son, brother, grandson, nephew, and friend, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, June 14, 2019, at the young age of 27. Ernest was born on September 19, 1991, in El Paso, Texas. Growing up in a military family, Ernest also lived in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and Louisville, Kentucky, but his family roots are in NorthernNew Mexico, and he graduated from Penasco High School. Ernest was a smart, talented young man who earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Sports Science from New Mexico Highlands University and was halfway through his coursework towards his master’s degree. He had a passion for cooking, playing sports, sports science, and was an avid Minnesota Vikings fan. Above all, Ernest was proud to be a father, and he loved his children dearly. Ernest is survived by his two wonderful sons,Ernest and Zander Vasquez, along with their mother, Dunika Montoya; his father, Terry Vasquez and wife Laura Sanchez; mother, Susie Flores and partner Patrick Garcia; his brother, Terry-Isiah (T.I.) Vasquez; paternal grandmother, Clara Vasquez; maternal grandparents, Paul, and Lena Flores; many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. Ernest is now with our Heavenly Father and angels along with his great-grandfather, Ernesto Vasquez; great-grandmother, Lucy Benavidez; and his cousin, Jason Vasquez. Ernest will be loved, remembered, and missed by all his family and friends. Rosary was June 19, 2019, at Immaculate Conception Church in Las Vegas, N.M. Mass of Christian Burial followed at San Antonio de Padua Catholic Church in Penasco. Burial was at the Placita Cemetery. The family of Ernest Paul Vasquez has entrusted the care of their loved one to the DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the Espanola Valley. 505-747-7477www.devargasfuneral.com