Mario Zuniga Merlos

Ernesto Mario Merlos passed away in Salinas, Ca on February 8, 2026, at the age of 69.

Ernesto was born in El Salvador on June 21, 1956, to his parents Juana Francisco Merlos and Adrian Zuniga.

Known in his community as “Mario”, he was an accomplished car detailer and active church member of Iglesia Cristiana Apostolica Vista Al Cielo. He was CERT-trained as part of an emergency response team for his community of Pajaro, Ca, an achievement that brought him great pride. In his free time, he also deeply enjoyed caring for his puppies and kittens.

Mario is remembered as, “a good man who carried a deep love for his community of Pajaro. He believed that being prepared for disasters was a way of protecting and caring for the people around him. Mario had a generous heart and was always ready to help anyone in need, putting others before himself. His kindness, strength, and commitment to his community touched many lives.” (Andrea Estrada, Resilience Coordinator of Monterey County)

He leaves behind his siblings: Sister Ana Vilma Merlos, Sandra Veronica, Roxanna del Carmen and Moises Ulysses, 16 nieces and nephews, and many beloved friends. Mario’s loss has also left a profound loss in the community of the Pajaro Valley.

A viewing will be held for Mario at Ave Maria Memorial Chapel on Thursday, March 26, 2026, from 4PM to 7PM, with a recitation of the Rosary at 6PM.