Victor Lovato

January 11, 1943 ~ February 23, 2020
Victor Lovato, born January 11, 1943 in Coyote, NM, died on February 23, 2020 at the University of Utah Hospital in Salt Lake City. He was born to Melesendro Lovato and Cidelia Vigil.
He married the love of his life, Eralia (Erla) M. Jaramillo, of 52 years. They are blessed with two daughters, Debbie (Joe Thurman) and Tami Lovato.
Victor is survived by his wife and daughters; one very special granddaughter, Kailee Thurman; a very special brother-in-law, Casey Jaramillo; and a special nephew, Leanard Garcia.
He is also survived by his siblings Alfred (Rose) Lovato, Prescilla (Jesse) Lopez, Mike (Rose) Lovato, Robert (Colleen) Lovato, Mary (Cruz) Madrid, Diana Lovato; and many nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his father, Melesendro Lovato; mother, Cidelia Vigil; sister Olympia Martinez; and granddaughter, Tashia Marie Carling.
Victor proudly served his country as a member of the U.S. Army from 1967 to 1969 and bravely fought in the Vietnam War. He received an honorable discharge following his dedicated service.
He worked for the Utah Department of Transportation for 35 years in La Sal and the surrounding area. He was an avid hunter and loved fishing, bowling, and just about anything in the outdoors.
However, his greatest love was every moment he spent with his family. His family was blessed to take many family trips together – Disneyland, Las Vegas, and the NASCAR races were favorites. It didn’t matter where they went as long as the family was together.
Victor was very well known for his infectious smile and as a master storyteller. His sense of humor and kindness endeared him to many, and he made everyone he was talking to feel special. He was generous with his time. Victor counted many of you as a dear friend.
Victor endured many illnesses attributed to his time in the service. He was frequently in the hospital and under medical care. Yet, he never complained and was determined to keep a positive outlook on life.
He shouldered this burden courageously strengthened by his faith and the support of his wife and family.
One of Victor’s greatest joys was watching his granddaughter, Kailee, dance. She was his pride and joy. At the beginning of this dancing season, Kailee dedicated her solo in his honor.
We have so many treasured memories of our dad, grandfather, and husband and will cherish them all. These will get us through the tough times. We will miss him immensely but are at peace knowing that he is no longer in pain and suffering.
Watch over us, protect us and know that we love you.
A Funeral Mass was held Saturday February 29, 2020 at the St. Pius X Catholic Church. A viewing was held on Friday, February 28 at Spanish Valley Mortuary followed by a Rosary Service at St. Pius X Catholic Church. Burial with Military Rites followed the services at Sunset Memorial Gardens Cemetery.
Donation can be made to help the family at Mountain America Credit Union account #11881680, and in lieu of flowers, donation may be made to D.A.V. in Grand Junction, CO or the University of Utah Critical Care Center.
You may send condolences to the family at www.SpanishValleyMortuary.com

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