Edward R. Ornelas

CASA GRANDE - Edward R. Ornelas, 91, a longtime Casa Grande resident, died on May 31, 2016, at Hospice of the Valley, St. Joseph’s Palliative Care Unit in Phoenix.

Mr. Ornelas was born on March 10, 1925, in Acala, Texas, to Bartolo and Dionicia Ornelas. He moved to Casa Grande in 1941. Before entering the Army during World War II, he was a farm hand and worked for R.C. Smith, mostly irrigating and also cultivating and harvesting cotton, tomatoes and corn. He picked and hauled cotton during the harvest season.

He joined the Army on May 27, 1943, and trained in California, then joined the 98th Division and did intensive training for combat in Hawaii. He was expecting to see action in the Philippines when the war ended. He was awarded the Expert Infantry Badge and Good Conduct and Asiatic-Pacific Campaign medals. He loved the Army lifestyle and the bond he formed with his brothers in arms. Returning home, he married the love of his life, Laura, and had six children. He worked on the railroad as a contractor and then joined Laborers Local 383, working until he retired.

He played guitar and harmonica and enjoyed playing poker. He was a Diamondbacks and Cowboys fan, enjoyed talking politics and had a sweet tooth and great sense of humor. His burial date will be on what would have been his 70th wedding anniversary.

Survivors include six daughters and sons, Gloria Amado and Eddie Ornelas of Casa Grande, Victor Ornelas of Ephrata, Pennsylvania, Lydia Montijo of Casa Grande, John and Steve Ornelas of Phoenix; a brother, Raymond Ornelas of Casa Grande; 20 grandchildren; and 20 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife; a brother, Fred Ornelas; and three sisters, Lilia Leija, Paula Torres and Flora Campos.

Visitation will begin at 9 a.m. Friday at J. Warren Funeral Services, Cole & Maud The Gardens Chapel, with rosary recited at 10. A scripture service will follow at 10:30, with Deacon Steve Di Muzio officiating. Burial will be in Mountain View Cemetery.