Ernie Ortiz

“Farewell, my family and friends. It was beautiful as long as it lasted, the journey of my life”

Ernie Ortiz, a retired linesman and a life-long resident of San Pedro, California passed unexpectedly on March 6th, 2019 at the age of 66 at the Norwalk Meadows Nursing Center.

Ernie was born on March 4th, 1953 in San Pedro California to Grace and Manuel Ortiz. He graduated from Banning High School in 1970. Worked as a longshoreman for over 29 years and retired back in 2012, due to some health factors that remained until his passing.

Ernie is survived by his two sons Aaron Andrew and Ernest Manuel Ortiz; Brother Sammy and Sister Gloria; Step kids, Grandchildren and God-children. He is predeceased by his Parents Grace and Manuel Ortiz, Brothers Danny and Manuel; Sister Jeanine.

Ernest was known majority of his life as “Ernie” as well as other nicknames like “Bigg Ern”, “Wolfman” and at work “Big Red”. He was a people person and the life of the party. He knew everyone, whether at the grocery store, a restaurant, the mall, he was always running into a friend and loved to talk and catch up. He loved to joke around, especially with his one-liners, turning any situation into something to laugh about. Cooking was one of his hobbies; his favorite dishes were making taquitos with rice and beans or spaghetti with his own special meatballs. When he cooked, you would think he was getting ready to cook for the entire neighborhood, but it was just for him and his sons. His love for music was un-noticed, you could catch him singing and sharing his favorite artists or songs - whatever he came across on the radio that day or week with everyone. He loved attending church every Sunday, was a devoted Christian and Usher at Harbor Christian Center in Wilmington. Ernie was a happy guy with a big heart, who gave without question and was always caring as he truly saw the best in everyone he came in contact with. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all who knew him.

Ernie’s Memorial Services:

April 4th 2019
Public viewing 4:30pm-8:30pm - Service to begin at 6:00pm
Green Hills Memorial Chapel
(27501 South Western, Rancho Palos Verde, Ca.)

April 5th 2019
Church Service - 10:00 am
Harbor Christian Center
(1551 Wilmington Blvd, Wilmington, Ca.)

Burial Service to follow
Green Hills Memorial Chapel
(27501 South Western, Rancho Palos Verde, Ca.)

Celebration of Life – Reception
1:00pm-4:00pm
ILWU Memorial Hall
(231 West C Street, Wilmington, Ca.)