Ernesto Burciaga

Ernesto V Burciaga, the eldest of the six children of Lorenzo R Burciaga and Maxine T Burciaga (nee Van Sloun) passed away on Dec 4, 2025, following a lengthy battle with dementia.

In addition to being predeceased by his parents, his sister Ann C Johnson and brother Timothy V Burciaga, he was predeceased by his loving wife of 44 years, Cecilia, who passed away earlier this year.

Ernesto, also known as Ernie and Neto, was born Jan 26, 1946, in Santa Fe NM. His family moved to Los Alamos NM in 1955. He graduated from Los Alamos High School in 1964 lettering in football and wrestling. Following a year at the New Mexico Military Institute, he enlisted in the US Navy. Following his naval service, he attended the University of Albuquerque before enlisting in the US Army. Following his Army service, he reentered the University of Albuquerque completing his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree.

Ernesto returned to Los Alamos where he met his wife Cecilia and worked at the Los Alamos National Laboratory as a metallurgist. In addition to working at the Lab, Ernesto served in the New Mexico Air National Guard and was an established, award-winning photographer, artist and craftsman specializing in southwestern themed art. He and Cecilia, she being known for her weaving skills, were a part of the Los Alamos art community.

In his later years and following retirement from the Lab, Ernesto volunteered at the Bandelier National Monument and continued working his arts and crafts until being overtaken by illness.

Ernesto is survived by his sisters Laurel J Knobloch and Susan P Martinez (Rick), his brother Stephen V Burciaga (Judy), and numerous nieces and nephews. The family wishes to thank the staff at Beehive Homes of White Rock and the nurses of Anvoi Hospice Care for all of their support.

Ernesto and his wife Cecilia will be interred together at the Santa Fe National Cemetery. A celebration of life for friends and family will be scheduled at a later date.

Please visit www.riverafamilyfuneralhome.com to leave condolences, stories, and pictures for family and friends to cherish.