Ernest “Ernie” Charlifue, 94, passed away on October 5, 2026, leaving behind a life marked by devotion to family, service to country and community, and a genuine compassion for others.

A longtime resident of Pueblo, Colorado, Ernie was born in La Veta, Colorado, on October 19, 1931, to Henry and Annie (Vigil) Charlifue. Both sides of his family were among La Veta’s pioneering families, and he carried a deep appreciation for his heritage throughout his life. He was especially proud of his French-Canadian ancestry as the great-grandson of Jean Baptiste Chalifoux, a French trapper well known in 19th-century Western history.

Family was at the heart of Ernie’s life. He shared 69 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Dolores, and together they built a life centered on love, commitment, and family. Ernie is survived by Dolores; son, James Charlifue (Josephina) and their children, Demetria, Gabriel, Monique, Michael, and Jacqueline Charlifue; daughter, Renee Charlifue-Smith (David) and their daughters, Allison Smith and Alexis Elliott (Davis); great-grandson, Luke Elliott; sister, Genevieve Gomez (Paul); sisters-in-law, Margaret Maldonado and Lucille Vigil (Ernie), numerous nieces and nephews, and many relatives and family friends. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Henry, Richard, Fredrick, Edward, and Fred.

Before entering the U.S. Army, Ernie was proud of his time at Pueblo Junior College, where he was the sports editor of the student newspaper and graduated in 1951. Ernie served in the Korean War and later continued that service for many years in the Army Reserve as a Sergeant First Class. After the war, he returned to Pueblo and worked for 38 years as a letter carrier for the U.S. Postal Service, retiring on January 2, 1993.

Ernie’s life was about much more than work and service. He had a warm spirit and a wonderful ability to make people laugh, often entertaining family and friends with his antics and sense of humor. Ernie was a lifelong daily walker and could often be found outside enjoying the simple pleasure of being on the move. For many years, he sang with El Mariachi de Pueblo, performing in churches throughout Southern Colorado. He was an active member and supporter of Pueblo’s Fray Angelico Chavez Chapter, where he shared his enthusiasm for Hispanic genealogy and history.

Ernie never lost his deep connection to La Veta, a place he loved and affectionately called “God’s Country.” He cherished his visits and the breathtaking views of the Spanish Peaks. Ernie especially looked forward to attending school reunions, where old friendships and memories were renewed.

Ernie lived a long and meaningful life, rooted in family and service, and enriched by the many people he touched along the way. His memory will live on in the stories his family tells, the laughter he inspired, and the love he gave so freely.

Recitation of the Holy Rosary will be held at 11:30 a.m. on October 13, 2026, at Christ the King Catholic Church in La Veta. A Funeral Mass celebrating Ernie's life will immediately follow at 12:00 p.m., with immediate interment at the La Veta Cemetery.

The family extends their gratitude for the many kindnesses, prayers, and expressions of sympathy shared during this time.