Ernie Gallegos

Ernie Gallegos, Sr. born October 16, 1947, peacefully stepped from this world into his new home with his Lord and Savior, free from pain and rejoicing in salvation on July 19, 2024. 

Ernie was a graduate of Santa Fe High School and spent his early years working with his father downtown at their family’s used car lot, El Centro Auto Sales. While in Santa Fe, he enjoyed spending time with his countless friends and especially horsing around in his GTO on Airport Road. In 1981, he and his family moved to San Diego, CA, where he worked in the grocery industry. While in San Diego, he enjoyed attending Padre baseball games and visiting the beach as often as he could. However, it was while he was visiting home in 1989 for the annual Fiestas de Santa Fe, that he met his loving wife, Anita. The couple continued living in San Diego until 1991, when they then returned to Santa Fe. Ernie would later retire as a supervisor for the City of Santa Fe, Parking Division. In 2005 the couple relocated to Albuquerque where they spent the rest of their years together living in unwavering love. 

Ernie always had an admiration for classic cars as he maintained his ability to name the make, model, and year of most domestic vehicles. He was an avid sports fan, especially NASCAR and NFL- GO BOLTS! He always enjoyed good food, especially some authentic New Mexican chile. Ernie enjoyed spending time with his family and never missed an opportunity to share a story about the good old days.

 Ernie was preceded in death by his parents Bennie and Esther Gallegos; brother, Gene Gallegos; and son Ernie Gallegos, Jr. He is survived by his wife of 33 beautiful years, Anita Bliven-Gallegos; brother, Joey Gallegos; sister Elayne Gallegos; daughter, Jolene Shade (Robert); son, Chris Gallegos; son, Edward Gallegos; along with his numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren whom he loved dearly.

 Services for Ernie will be held on Monday, August 19, 2024, at St. Jude Thaddeus Catholic Church, 5712 Paradise Blvd. NW, Albuquerque, NM. A rosary will be prayed at 9:30 AM with a mass to follow. There will be a reception to celebrate his life immediately following in the parish hall.

 In lieu of flowers, it is kindly requested that friends and family consider making a donation, in his name, to the Heart Hospital of New Mexico at Lovelace Medical Center located at 504 Elm St. NE, Albuquerque, NM. A heartfelt gratitude is extended to the staff of HHNM for the exceptional medical service and gracious comfort care that they constantly provided to Ernie.