Ernesto E. MELENDEZ

1932 - 2017

MELENDEZ, Mr. Ernesto E. passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones on June 28, 2017 in Tucson, Arizona at the age of 84. Ernesto is survived by his beloved wife, Lucy of 63 years; five children, Anita, Rosa (Mark), Ernie, Robert (Anna) and Joel; one sister, Virginia Groves and grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great- grandchildren. Ernesto was born on November 7, 1932 in Douglas, Arizona to the late Luis and Isabel Melendez. Ernesto enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1950 where he retired after 21 years of service. He served during the Korean War. He continued to excel in the VFW where he achieved the rank of State Commander and National Council member. His passion to give back to community was evident through his engagement in charity work. He was a committee member of the Pirtleville Fire Dept. and Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 6, 2017 at DESERT SUNSET FUNERAL HOME with Rosary recited at 7:00 p.m. Mass is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. on Friday, July 7, 2017 at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church. Graveside service to follow at the Southern Arizona Veterans' Memorial Cemetery in Marana, AZ with full Military Honors provided by the DMAFB Honor Guard. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Ernesto's life.