Mario Santos Aguilar Sr.

“God saw you getting tired, and a cure was not to be. So, he put his arms around you and whispered, ‘Come to me.’”

CWO4 Mario S. Aguilar Sr., Ret., affectionately known as “Sparky,” “Daddy,” “Chief,” “Pops,” and “Grandpa Chief,” passed away peacefully on December 3, 2025, at home in his hometown of El Paso, Texas, at the age of 83. A devoted husband, loving father, cherished grandfather, and proud American, Mario lived a life defined by service, devotion, and love.

Born on July 9, 1942, in El Paso to the late Miguel S. Aguilar Sr. and the late Jean Ornelas, Mario grew up with strong family values that guided him throughout his life. He honorably served in the United States Army for 40 years, rising to the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 4. His military service was marked by loyalty, discipline, and commitment to his fellow soldiers—values he carried proudly into civilian life.

Mario united in marriage with the love of his life, Mary Lou, with whom he celebrated 64 extraordinary years, including 55 delightful years of matrimony. He was the father of 4 wonderful children: the late Monica S. Aguilar, Mario S. Aguilar Jr. (Angela), Martha S. Aguilar (Praxedis), and Christina Jackson (Blake), and he was blessed with 7 grandchildren: Mariesa, Mario III, Aiden, the late Lorenzo, Lilia, Baxley, and Isla. He also took great pleasure in his extended family, always bringing warmth and humor to those around him. Mario's siblings are Robert S. Aguilar Sr. and Mary Hamilton, and he is preceded in death by his brothers Daniel, Juan, and Miguel Jr.

Known for his strength, loyalty, and humor, Mario was a devoted Catholic and active member of his community through the VFW, American Legion, VVA, DVA, and Eagles. He loved arts and crafts, building projects, woodworking, playing cards, and was a die-hard Dallas Cowboys fan.

Visitation will be held on December 15, 2025, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. with the Rosary at 6:00 p.m. at Sunset Funeral Home on 4631 Hondo Pass in El Paso. A funeral mass will follow on December 16 at 12:30 p.m. at Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church on 10000 Pheasant Rd., with committal at 2:30 p.m. at Ft. Bliss National Cemetery.

Everyone’s life ends the same way. It is only the details of how one lived and how one died that distinguish one person from another.

Our dad was a symbol of hope, life, and love. We will hold his memories dear, celebrate his life, and aspire to be remarkable extensions of him until we reunite again in eternal life.

“God broke our hearts to prove to us; he only takes the best.”