We lost one of the "greatest generation" yesterday as Ernesto "Ernie" Venegas went to be with the Lord. He passed away, peacefully at Gila Regional Medical Center in Silver City, New Mexico surrounded by his family.

As a young man, Ernest was working at Kennecott's copper mine when World War 2 erupted. He joined the Army in November 1942 and served in Europe and participated in the D-Day invasion of France. He fought with his unit in Northern France, Ardennes, Rhineland and Central Europe. Among his many military decorations is a distinguished unit citation for the 434th Troop Carrier Group for completing 132 motorized and 132 glider flights with infantrymen and essential supplies accurately delivered to pinpoint objectives in Normandy on June 5 - 7, 1944.

Ernest returned to Grant County to the mine and married Socorro Corral on September 8, 1946, his wife of 70 years. Together they bought the Hurley Bar and built it up to one of the most popular bars in Grant County.

Ernest worked at Kennecott for 45 years and retired 30 years ago, allowing him plenty of time to spend with his family. He loved fishing, hunting, cooking and spending time with his grandchildren. He will be greatly missed by many and never be forgotten.

Ernest is survived by his wife Socorro "Sookie", three children Dolores and her husband Bruce Sandler, Ernest and his wife Pricilla, and Randy and his wife Leticia, 7 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be Tuesday, May 23 from 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. at Infant Jesus Shrine in Hurley, NM with the holy rosary to begin at 11:30 a.m. with Father Francisco reciting. The funeral mass will follow at 12 noon with Father Francisco to officiate.

Pallbearers will be Randy Venegas Jr., Yajaira Venegas, Anahi Venegas, EJ, Celeste, and Vanessa Venegas.

Inurnment will be Wednesday, May 24 at 2 p.m. at Fort Bayard National Cemetery with full military honors. Cremation will take place at Terrazas Crematory.

Arrangements are with Terrazas Funeral Chapels and Crematory "Trusted care for the ones you love" ~ 575-537-0777.

To send condolences, visit www.terrazasfuneralchapel.com.