Ernesto “Neto” Jesus Tapia, Sr., was born July 2, 1960, in San Manuel. He entered into eternal rest on Dec. 17, 2019, in Clifton. Ernesto is preceded in death by his grandmother, Victoria S. Tapia, and his father, Frank S. Tapia. He is survived by his mother, Esperanza Armendariz; sisters, Hope Rodriquez, Norma Tapia, Marian Davis, Victoria Tapia, and Michaela Armendariz; brothers, Frank Tapia, Pedro Armendariz, and Leo Armendariz; his wife of 42 years, Mayra; his three children, Maritza (Tony) Martinez, Ernesto Jr. (Mary) Tapia, and Tomas (Samantha) Tapia; and his grandchildren, Jose, Andrew, Mayra Cruz, Maria, Ernie III, Mercy, Estefan, and Victoria.
Ernesto was raised in Aravaipa Canyon in the family business of cattle ranching. He wore his cowboy boots and hat in pride of heritage. He spoke honestly and from his heart and as a man of the Lord. Ernesto was a master of all trades and never shied away from hard work and opportunity. He worked as a hard rock miner with Magma Mine until 1986 when he ventured out for a new life in the big city. He worked with his hands and strived to be of service to whoever needed him. He was also a business owner, a CDL truck driver, plumber and HVAC Tech. He was forced to retire due to a heart condition.
Upon retirement, he moved back to Aravaipa Canyon for a short time and ended up in Fort Thomas. He enjoyed woodworking, art, music, remodeling, landscaping, amateur archeology, and rock hunting. His life was a journey to be admired. He will be greatly missed and will live forever in our hearts. Ernesto will be laid to rest in Aravaipa Canyon with his grandparents at the Salazar Family Cemetery.
Mass of Christian Burial for Ernie will be celebrated Friday, Jan. 10, at 11 a.m., at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church by Rev. Nicodemus Shaghel. Committal will follow in the Salazar Family Cemetery in Aravaipa.
A Rosary and prayers will be offered Friday, Jan. 10, at 10 a.m., at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church led by Deacon Carl Vessels.
The family will receive friends Friday morning, Jan. 10, from 9 – 10 a.m., at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church.
