Ernie R. Lucero, 69, of Antonito, CO, passed away unexpectedly on May 9, 2026, and is now in the loving arms of the Lord. He was born in Alamosa, CO, to Ernesto and Carla Lucero.
Ernie graduated from Antonito High School and proudly enlisted in the United States Army, where he served for three years. After his service, he married the mother of his three children, Mary Lucero, and together they moved to Grants, New Mexico, where they began their family and where he worked for Homestake Mining Company. He was known as a dedicated and hardworking employee. When the mine closed, Ernie returned to Antonito, where he reestablished his roots, surrounded himself with his family, and worked for many years at Colorado Aggregate. He later held several other jobs before choosing to retire so he could care for his mother. In his later years, Ernie found companionship and joy with Nancy Loya.
Ernie cherished spending time with his family and grandchildren. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, dancing, tending to his yard, and giving his time to the church and community. He was known for his ever-present smile and contagious laugh. Always joking and full of life, Ernie was lovingly called “the big kid that never grew up.”
Ernie is survived by his daughters, Marsha Madril (Roberto Herrera) and Angel (Danny) Sanchez, his sisters Linda (Larry) Montoya and Debbie (Valentino) Espinoza; his stepsisters Jolene Lucero and Judy Lucero; and his grandchildren Braidon, Kaidon, Lainey Madril, Joshua, Elijah Sanchez, Inez, and Aleece Herrera. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews who adored him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ernesto and Carla Lucero; his nephew, Val Jr. Espinoza; his beloved son, Joshua Lucero, and many other family members.
Ernie will be remembered for his humor, his warm smile, his generous heart, and the joy he brought to everyone around him. He will be deeply missed.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, June 12, 2026, with a Rosary at 9:30 a.m. and Mass at 10:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in Conejos, CO. Interment will follow at Los Cerritos Cemetery in Manassa, CO.
To leave online condolences, please visit romerofuneralhomes.com.
The care of arrangements has been entrusted to Romero Valley Funeral Home of Alamosa.
In loving memory of Ernie R. Lucero—forever in our hearts, never forgotten.
