Ernest Gerald Murrieta

Ernest G. Murrieta, 80, passed away on Saturday, August 13, 2022. Ernie was born to Manuel Murrieta and Darlene Edmo Murrieta on August 12, 1942 in Pocatello, Idaho.

As a young teen he worked various odd jobs in the community. Following high school graduation, from Pocatello High School at age 16, he set his sights on seeing more of the country and like his father he joined the Army. Following the completion of boot camp, it was discovered that he was not 18 but was really 16 years old. He then left the Army. He waited and returned to reenlisted when he turned 18. That meant he had to go through boot camp for a second time. After his time in the Army, he returned to Pocatello.

Some years later he met and married for the first time. He became the father of two daughters, Betty and Tracy whom he dearly loved. He later adopted his two stepsons, Darcy and Danny and raised them as his sons. The marriage ended in divorce.

After working for many years with the Union Pacific Railroad he retired. Ernie had many friends he kept in touch with from his younger years. These friends became his extended family. Together they shared good times and lots of laughs as well as giving him a sense of love and belonging. Eventually, he met Mary Ellen Burke. Out of their friendship came a 32-year relationship. Although the marriage ended, they remained close. Ernie helped raise Mary Ellen's young children and he became especially close with Erin and Collin. Even after the divorce Collin would spend weekends with "papa". When his health took a turn for the worse, Mary Ellen moved him back home with her and Collin. This was his sanctuary, a place where he felt he belonged and where he left this world to find his forever home.

Ernie is survived by his four adult children, Betty, Tracy, Darcy and Danny. He will also leave behind his significant other, Mary Ellen Burke and "his man" Collin. He will also be missed by his sister, Judy Murrieta Cruz whom he was raised with. His other siblings are Lee Ann Graham Jones, Penelope Gonzales, Roberta Estrada and John P. Jones.

He was preceded in death by his father, Manuel Murrieta, mother, Darlene Edmo Jones, brother, Dennis Townsend, sister, Joni Jones Marshal, and grandson, Travis. Lastly, he will be reunited with his well-loved grandfather, Ernesto Murrieta who gave him a sense of undivided love.

Ernie’s wit and ability to make all who knew him laugh will always be in our hearts. Happy trails Ernie.

A memorial service will take place on Friday, August 19, 2022 at 2:00 PM at St. Anthony Catholic Church located at 524 N 7th Ave, Pocatello, ID 83201. Inurnment will follow at Mountain View Cemetery, 1520 S. 5th Avenue, Pocatello, ID 83201. 

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