Ernesto B. Zarate

Ernesto B. Zarate, Sr., born on December 8, 1944 in the small ranch community outside off San Pedro, outside of Brownsville, Texas. Mr. Zarate was one 11 children born to Manuel and Maria B. Zarate, they precede him in death, along with his brother Alejandro B. Zarate, his sister Juanita Z. Garza, and his grandson Jose F. Moya, Jr.

Ernesto attended Villa Nueva Elementary and Los Fresnos High School. He later obtained his GED and completed his training and certification to be a pipefitter. He spent over 25+ years working as a pipefitter with Brown & Root, which later became Union Carbide. He then commuted from Brownsville to Houston to continue his employment with H.B. Zachary until he retired due to health issues.

Ernesto was a practical joker and enjoyed telling stories about the days he spent growing up with his siblings, his love of music and dance. No individual was a stranger to him, always waving his hand to everyone and ready to share conversation.

Ernesto B. Zarate is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Rosalva C. Zarate, his sons Ernesto Zarate, Jr. and his wife Claudia, Juan Antonio Martinez, III and daughter Mary Moya.

His grandchildren Emesto (Trey), Emily, and Lillian Zarate; JoVanna McCloud, Alexa, Kayla, and Juan A. Martinez IV.

Also survived by his siblings Gilbert Zarate, Sr. Manuel Zarate, Jr., Reynaldo Zarate, Arturo Zarate, Sr., Jorge L. Zarate, Anna Maria Ruiz, Maria Elena Garza, and Maria Berta Farias and numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 6, 2016 from 1:00pm to 9:00pm with a prayer service at 7:00pm at Funeraria Del Angel Buena Vista.

Chapel Service will be held on Thursday, April 7, 2016 at Funeraria Del Angel Buena Vista at 2:00pm Committal Service to follow at Roselawn Memorial Gardens.

You may view Ernesto B. Zarate Obituary and send condolences at www.mem.com

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Funeraria Del Angel Buena Vista, cemeteries, and mausoleums. 125 McDavitt Blvd., Brownsville, Texas 78521 (956) 541-5400. Dignity Memorial Provider.