Ernest Serna

ERNEST RUDOLFO ELOY SERNA “RUDY”, born November 16, 1941, passed away peacefully in his home, with his family by his side, in the early morning of February 16, 2021 at the age of 79. He left behind his wife of fifty-two years, Anna; his four children and spouses, Andrea (Edwardo), Rudolfo (Isis), Anesa (Conrad), and Alena (Amos) along with his six grandchildren, Marcos (Chantelle), Chanell, Angelica, Conrado, Tristan, and Nina; his siblings, Clara (Halzie), Donald (Melitta), and Richard (Patricia), and many dear nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jake and Juliet Serna; his siblings, Rosaline, Jackie, Theresa, Frank, and Manuel. Rudy was a craftsman and master builder, and as a general contractor he was responsible for many of the homes built in the Española Valley and in the surrounding areas leaving a lasting mark on the community in which he was born and raised. Originally from Hernandez, Rudy was drafted into the army and was stationed in Korea, upon arriving back in the states he spent time on the shores of California. Returning to New Mexico he attended the College of Santa Fe and worked for the New Mexico State Penitentiary. After meeting his lifelong mate and the mother of his children, Rudy and Anna would build their own home in the orchards of Los Luceros where he would nurture two hundred plus apple trees. He had an individualistic approach to life and was an excellent host. He was a father who taught his kids the value of hard work and commitment to family along with an appreciation for nature and the outdoors. Independent and defiant to the end, he will be missed, but his lessons, love and memory will remain. A rosary will be prayed on Friday, April 16, 2021 at 10:30 a.m. at San Juan Catholic Church followed by the Mass of Christian burial at 11:00 a.m.  Burial will follow at La Villita Cemetery. Serving as honorary pallbearers are his grandchildren: Marcos, Chanell, Angelica, Conrado, Tristan, and Nina. The family of Ernest Rudolfo Eloy Serna “Rudy” as entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory.