Ernest Chacon Maldonado, 85 a life-long resident of Silver City, NM, entered eternal rest on June 4, 2023 at Mesilla Valley Hospice Las Cruces, NM. He was born February 2, 1938 in Silver City, NM to Porfirio and Anita Maldonado.

Ernest served in Korea in the United States Army's Nuclear Division. For numerous of years he operated "The Pet Shop" in Silver City. He enjoyed gardening, caring for his fishponds, and the family ranch in Gila. He loved preparing meals and serving them to his family and many friends. Everyone was welcomed into his kitchen with his infectious smile and delicious cooking. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

He is survived by one nephew, Ralph Cardoza, one niece, Annette Zimmerman (Clint). Four grandniece/nephews: Amanda Cardoza (Antonio Carrillo), Benjamin Cardoza, Aiden Zimmerman, Avren Zimmerman. Three great grandnieces/nephew: Yesenia Carrillo, Aliyana Carrillo, and Nathan Cardoza. He is preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Antonia Cardoza and her husband Johnny Cardoza.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, June 15th at 10:00am at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church with Deacon Bill Holguin reciting the Rosary and Father Bartholomew Ezenwelem officiating. Inurnment to follow the services, where he will be laid to rest at Maldonado Cemetery.
Cremation will take place at Terrazas Crematory. Arrangements are with Terrazas Funeral Chapels and Crematory "Trust care for the ones you love" ~ 575-537-0777. To send condolences, visit  www.terrazasfuneralchapel.com .