Juan Ornelas

With heavy hearts and tearful eyes, we announce the passing of our beloved father, grandfather, and friend, Juan "John" Max Ornelas, who left this world on June 4th, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. On that day, he was reunited with his forever love, Rose Ornelas, his wife of 38 years, who had been patiently waiting to dance with him once more in Heaven.

John was born on September 20, 1956, in Odessa, Texas, and spent most of his life in Roswell, New Mexico. A proud truck driver for over 30 years, John was recognized with numerous awards for safe driving - but no award could ever measure the size of his heart.

He was known for his tough exterior and his legendary rants about his steak and eggs at diners across America - just ask any waitress - but underneath that, he was the gentlest soul you could ever meet. A giant teddy bear who loved hard, worked harder, and showed up for his family every single time.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his loving wife Rose, and his brothers Gilbert, Eddie, Arturo, and Carlos Ornelas. He is survived by his life companion and angel here on earth, Catalina Trujillo, and her family; and by his baby sister Mary Gonzalez and her husband Lupe Gonzalez.

He leaves behind his sons: Christopher (Kika) Ornelas and wife Kristian Ornelas, John Ornelas (Johnny), and John Max Ornelas Jr.

John was the proud grandfather to: Mercedes Ornelas and Christina Rodriguez, who cared for him selflessly, tenderly, and with unwavering devotion until his very last breath, along with Christina's husband Erick Rodriguez; Angela Ornelas and husband Hector Piñuelas; Savanna Ornelas; Risela Archuleta; Mario Sanchez and husband Gerardo Vargas; John Ornelas III; Isaac Ornelas; Christopher "TBO" Ornelas; Trystian Ornelas; Ethan Andrews; Angelica Ornelas; and Paislee Ornelas.

And a growing legacy of beautiful great-grandchildren, who brought joy to his final years and who will carry forward the strength, love, and warmth he poured into his family.

John found joy in the simple things - building with his hands (even if things leaned a little to the left), trying his hand at gardening (even though we all agree driving was his true art), and simply being present with the people he loved. He always made time for others, even when he was tired from the road.

Though he'd groan about being too tired to dance after a long haul, he always found the strength to take Rosie by the hand - because that's who he was. A man who loved deeply, who showed up even when it hurt, and who never let the miles between keep him from the people who mattered most.

We know he's finally home. And we hope Rosie isn't too mad that it took him this long to get there.

His Final Road Trip to Heaven "The Last Haul"

He sat behind the wheel one final time, The road ahead quiet - no hills to climb.

No map, no freight, no GPS glow,

Just a whisper from Heaven: "It's time to go."

He looked in the mirror, one last glance, At a life well-driven, a life of chance.

Of sleepless nights and diner lights, Of kisses missed and tearful fights.

But also laughter, joy, and grace, And the memory of her waiting face.

He held the wheel like he held her hand - Strong, steady, full of plans.

Through years and storms, he carried weight, But this time, he was running late.

Rosie's voice now soft, yet clear: "Come on home, I need you here."

The engine hummed a softer tune, As stars lit up the sky like noon.

And every mile, he shed his pain, With every breath, he felt her name.

He crossed the line, not marked in white, But in golden clouds and perfect light.

The gates swung open, no need to knock, She met him barefoot on the dock.

"About time, Max," she said, with tearful eyes, "You kept me waiting in the skies."

He laughed and held her, heart and soul, Back in the arms that made him whole.

Now he rides where roads don't end, Where time is healed, and love can mend.

And though he's gone from sight and sound, He left his heart in all he found.

So drive on, Dad, the skies are clear - We'll feel you near with every tear.

And when the night is calm and wide, We'll picture you by Rosie's side.

Pallbearers:

Cristina Rodriguez, Mercedes Ornelas, Savanna Ornelas, Angela Ornelas, Mario Sanchez, Trystian Ornelas

Honorary Pallbearers:

John Ornelas III, Isaac Ornelas, Christopher Ornelas Jr., Risela Archuleta, Ethan Andrews

Visitation will be held at Ballard Funeral Home, on Monday, June 9, from 10am-4 pm. Tuesday, June 10, from 9-4,and Thursday, June 12, from 9-7. There will also be a Rosary held at Ballard Funeral Home on Thursday night June 12, at 7 pm. And a Mass will be held at St. John’s Catholic Church, on Friday morning June 13, at 10:00am., with burial to follow at South Park Cemetery.