Our Caring Staff

Our dedicated staff is here to provide support, compassion, and information to help you through your journey of grief and the celebration of your loved one’s life.

Jeffrey Burge
Jeffrey Burge
Location Manager & Director | NFDA Certified Crematory Operator
Jeffrey Burge
Location Manager & Director | NFDA Certified Crematory Operator


Efrain Vaquera
Efrain Vaquera
Director | NFDA Certified Crematory Operator
Efrain Vaquera
Director | NFDA Certified Crematory Operator

Meet Efrain Vaquera, one of our dedicated Funeral Directors. A resident of the area for 19 years and a proud native of Cortez, Colorado, Efrain brings four years of experience and a deep commitment to service.


His path into the industry began with a simple curiosity about the care that goes on behind the scenes. That curiosity quickly turned into a calling when he realized how much heart, patience, and organization it takes to help families through their hardest times. Efrain's colleagues describe him as present, upbeat, and reliable—all essential qualities for guiding families.


Efrain is incredibly proud of the moments when his team rises to the occasion. He recalls one family who chose to entrust their loved one to us unexpectedly, and his team delivered with such excellence and compassion that the family expressed their deep gratitude. His professional goal is to ensure the Ertel Funeral Home name remains synonymous with quality.


When he’s not focused on serving families, Efrain’s world revolves around his own. He proudly calls his wife his “rock,” and his healthy children are his greatest joy. He’s especially excited about becoming a grandpa soon! In his free time, he channels his creativity into building cigar box guitars and painting with watercolors. He and his wife also love exploring the charm of local shops and small-town restaurants.

David Russell
David Russell
Director | NFDA Certified Crematory Operator
David Russell
Director | NFDA Certified Crematory Operator


Connie McGuire
Connie McGuire
Bookkeeping Coordinator
Connie McGuire
Bookkeeping Coordinator