Ignacio Estrada

Ignacio Estrada (July 27, 1946 – January 28, 2024 ) was an American ventriloquist based in South Texas. Estrada performed in public schools in Texas for over forty years where he worked as an entertainer and taught morals. Estrada, who also performed under the name "Nacho", was known for his two puppets, Maclovio and Tortiya Monster.

Early life Ignacio “Nacho” Estrada was born in Edinburg, to María (Nieves) Estrada and Salvador Estrada; his father worked as a farmer. Estrada started going to most elementary and middle schools around South Texas entertaining the students; he would also travel to Mexico.

Estrada used his puppets to also teach morals including drug awareness and anti-bullying messages.

Personal life Estrada married his wife, Sallie Kay Bell, on November 4, 1967 in Burlington, Texas. They had two children. In the 1970s the family moved to Eagle Pass where Ignacio originally worked as a bus driver and then as a teachers aide in special education. He lived in Uvalde for a while and eventually settled down in San Antonio to raise his family. He was a Jehovah's Witness.

Ignacio Estrada died on January 28, 2024, at age 77, at his home in San Antonio after a lengthy illness. He was survived by his wife, two children and two grandchildren. A memorial service took place on April 6.