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 before retiring with honor. During his distinguished military career, Mario embodied loyalty, integrity, and devotion—values he carried proudly into civilian life. He also earned an Associate’s Degree in Applied Science, reflecting his lifelong commitment to education and hard work.

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. Mario was the heart of his family. He is survived by Mary Lou; his children, Mario S. Aguilar Jr. (Angela), Martha S. Aguilar (Praxedis), and Christina Jackson (Blake); his grandchildren: Mariesa, Mario III, Aiden, Lilia, Baxley, and Isla; and his siblings, Robert S. Aguilar Sr. and Mary Hamilton. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Monica S. Aguilar, grandson Lorenzo Isaiah Navarro, and brothers Daniel, Juan, and Miguel Jr.

A man of faith and humor, known for his strength and loyalty, 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. He was also a generous supporter of St. Jude Children’s Hospital and Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church and School.

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 1:00 p.m. at Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church on 10000 Pheasant Rd., with committal at 2:30 p.m. at Ft. Bliss National Cemetery.

Pallbearers include Mario S. Aguilar Jr., Mario S. Aguilar III, Mario S. Aguilar, Praxedis Nunez, Robert S. Aguilar Jr., Albert Avila, Michael Avila, and Jeremy Hamilton. Honorary pallbearer is Aiden S. Aguilar.

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.”