Ernesto "Ernie" Alonzo

Ernesto "Ernie" Alonzo, a cherished father, husband, son, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family in Topeka, Kansas, on January 26, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on June 18, 1967, in Union County, Oregon, Ernie was a beacon of light and joy to everyone who knew him.

Ernie's early life in Oregon was filled with the warmth of a close-knit family. He was the beloved son of Caroline Dozal and Jose Jesus Alonzo, and a caring brother to Isabel Garcia, Joe Alonzo, Francisco Alonzo, Jimmy Castillo, Lisa Heider, and Michael Aguilar. His formative years were spent in the company of his siblings, where he developed his lifelong love for games and puzzles, a passion he would later share with his own children.

After graduating with a business degree from Chaffey College, Ernie dedicated himself to a career that combined his artistic talents and precision as a stained glass architect with Willet Hauser Architectural Glass. His work, characterized by its beauty and craftsmanship, can be seen in various installations that will serve as a lasting legacy of his skill and passion.

Ernie's commitment to service was evident in his time with the Air Force, where he served as a fuel specialist. His dedication to his country was a testament to his character and his belief in duty and honor.

A man of many interests, Ernie was an avid traveler and outdoorsman who loved hiking, and fishing. He was a voracious reader, and a lover of mind games. He found joy in the simple pleasure of spending quality time with his children and loved ones, creating memories that would last a lifetime.

Ernie built a home filled with laughter, learning, and love for his family, Bella Celeste Alonzo, Daniel Emilio Alonzo, and wife, Ana Sanchez. His children, Bella and Daniel, were the pride and joy of his life.

Ernie's sense of humor was infectious, and his intelligence was evident to all who engaged with him in conversation. He was a wise man, often sharing insights that would leave a profound impact on those around him. His ability to light up a room with his wit and wisdom will be dearly missed.

Those who knew Ernie would say he embodied the sentiment of the well-known quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson: "To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children... to leave the world a bit better... to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded." Ernie indeed succeeded in all these aspects, touching the lives of many with his generosity of spirit and his unwavering positivity.

Ernie is survived by his loving family: his daughter, Bella; his son, Daniel; his mother, Caroline; his father, Raul; and his siblings, Isabel, Joe, Francisco, Jimmy, Lisa, Michael, and Edgar. His presence will also be profoundly missed by his love, his "Darlin'", Danielle Cottman - an angel who sacrificed and devoted so much into his care and happiness; and his lifelong best friend, Robert Padilla, who was more like a brother, and played a significant role in his journey through life.

Ernie Alonzo's life was a testament to the power of love, the strength of family, and the joy of friendship. As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate the remarkable life he led and the indelible mark he left on the hearts of all who knew him. His legacy will continue to inspire and guide us, and his memory will forever be a source of comfort and strength. Rest in peace, dear Ernie. Your light will never fade.

As Ernie often stated " It is what it is"