Eliseo Ernest Salazar, age 79, of Sapello, New Mexico, passed away on October 31, 2026 peacefully with his family by his side.

Ernie was a dedicated and hardworking man who devoted many years of service to his community. Throughout his career, he worked as a mechanic, custodian, and bus driver for Las Vegas City Schools. He will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his dedication to his family, and the many lives he touched throughout his lifetime.

Ernie is survived by his Beloved Wife, Mary Alice Salazar; his daughters, Darlene Martinez (Anthony Martinez) and Sadie Salazar; and his grandchildren; Leo Montoya III (Lauren Garduno), Fabian Montoya (Santianna Medrano), Diego Montoya (Makenzie Stratfold), Ernie Trujillo (Caitlin Trujillo), Rachel Trujillo (Justin Gallegos), and Audrey Trujillo (Brian Padilla). He is also survived by his great-grandchildren, Hailey Montoya, Analee Montoya, Leo Montoya IIII, Kinsley Montoya, Jeremiah Trujillo, Eliza Trujillo, Gracelynn Gallegos, Ariella Padilla, and Lukas Padilla. His siblings include Larry Salazar (Mercy Salazar), Pete Salazar (Alice Salazar), Paul Salazar (Christine Salazar), Dolores Silva, and Joyce Castellano, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Ernie will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him. His memory will live on through the love he shared, the lessons he taught, and the lasting legacy he leaves behind.

Funeral services will be held at Our Lady of Sorrows Parish in Las Vegas, New Mexico, on Thursday, November 12, 2026. The Rosary will begin at 9:00 a.m., followed by Mass. Burial and interment will take place at Our Lady of Guadalupe Cemetery in Sapello, New Mexico with the following serving as pallbearers Ernie Trujillo, Leo Montoya II, Leo Montoya III, Anthony Martinez, Fabian Montoya, Diego Montoya, Benny Mora, and Joseph Salazar.

Gift Bearers Mr. and Mrs. Ray Chavez Readers Nichole Barela and Rachel Trujillo

May Ernie rest in eternal peace. He will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved him.

Arrangements are entrusted to and under the care of Rogers Mortuary 600 Reynolds Avenue · Las Vegas, NM 87701 505-425-3511 · Toll-Free: 1-800-479-3511.