Ernest "Ernie" R. Gallegos

Celebration of Life:

Ernest Robert Gallegos, 85, died at home on November, 16,2023.  He was born on October 26,1938 in Sopris, Colorado to Ernest C. Gallegos and Margaret (Bueno) Gallegos.  Ernie graduated from Holy Trinity High School in 1957 in Trinidad having attended all 12 years in parochial school.  Ernie joined the Marines in 1960 and served for 6 years.  Two of his most  memorable duty assignments were his time in Rota, Spain and later the Pentagon during the Kennedy administration. He formed lasting friendships and memories as a proud Marine.  Following his discharge  Ernie enrolled at Southern Colorado State College where he received his Bachelors Degree in Political Science.  It was in a Sociology class, Marriage and the Family, where he met the love of his life, Ruth Ann Oliver who he married on September 5, 1969.  Ernie began working in the newly created Public Defenders system as the Investigator in January of 1970.  He retired after 30 years of service in that role.  Ernie is survived by his wife Ruth and daughters Sara Hayden (Mark Martinez) and Amy Martinez along with four grandchildren whom he cherished and babysat from infancy to school age;  Lauren Hayden, (Noah Reyes), Evan Hayden, Katie and Kylie Martinez. Also surviving are his niece Lori Herr and nephew Robert Janezich along with their spouses and children.  He was preceded in death by his parents and sister Juanita (Jo) Cook.  In addition to enjoying his family and friends Ernie loved sports.  He played 3 sports in High School and was always competitive.  He was an avid Broncos fan and a passionate golfer. He was a lifetime member of the Pueblo Charter Lions Club.  Ernie had great memories and stories he shared about the events and friends he made during his lifetime.  Cremation has taken place. Services will be on Wednesday, November 22, 2023 at 10 am in the Montgomery Steward Funeral Home Chapel, followed by Military Honors.  Reception to follow in the mortuary Hall.