Marciano "Chanito" Rios Flores, Jr., 81, a U.S. Marine veteran and resident of El Paso, TX, entered eternal rest Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at Ambrosio Guillen Texas State Veterans Home in El Paso, TX. He was born November 26, 1943 to his parents, Marciano Sr. and Sarah (Rios) Flores in Santa Rita, NM.
Chanito loved being around family, especially his nieces and nephews. Chanito was the oldest out of his siblings, but always seemed to look up to them and admire his brothers and sisters. He was also a very devoted and proud Marine and served many years as a LCPL, Lance Corporal. He loved gathering his family and telling them stories of when he was Marine. Talking about being a Marine would bring him so much happiness, you could see it in his eyes. When Chanito was younger, he would love exploring the Santa Rita and Georgetown area. He loved finding new caves, and discovering pottery and arrowheads. He loved being outside, no matter what the weather looked like. Chanito could bring a smile to anyone's face. Everyone who knew and loved him will miss him dearly.
He is survived by his brothers, Robert Flores and Andy Gomez; his sisters, Virginia Arriola, Mary Lou Rivas and Juanita Perez; his numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Joe Rivas; his sister Ermalinda Morales; his niece, Sara Alirez.
Visitations will be held on Friday, August 1, 2025 at 9:30am-10:00am at Terrazas Funeral Chapels (Santa Clara, NM), with the Holy Rosary commencing at 10:00am, recited by Deacon Art Gutierrez. The Funeral Mass will take place at 11:30 am at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church (Bayard, NM), with Father Marin Okonkwo officiating. He will be laid to rest at Fort Bayard National Cemetery at 1:00pm, where he will receive Full Military Honors.
Arrangements are with Terrazas Funeral Chapels "Trusted care for the ones you love" ~ 575-537-0777. To send condolences, visit www.terrazasfuneralchapel.com.
