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Ernie Bucio, a popular longtime Modesto bandleader, died Saturday evening, Aug. 27, according to Martin Martinez, a saxophonist who had been Bucio's friend for three decades.
Bucio's family and friends were with him at the hospital when he died about 7 p.m., Martinez said. The family was in the process of making funeral arrangements.
Bucio suffered a massive stroke earlier this month and was hospitalized at Doctors Medical Center in Modesto. The 53-year-old musician was a mentor to many performers who got their start because Bucio gave them that chance. His performances with Ernie Bucio's Little Big Band, Ernie Bucio's Latin Jazz Orchestra, the Gottschalk Concert Band and any of the other groups he led or worked with over the years were well known in Modesto.
They played at downtown restaurants, X-Fest and everything in between, including working with the YES! Company and Modesto Performing Arts. They played at Carnegie Hall in New York and in New Orleans' famed French Quarter.
His energy and determination to play everywhere and anywhere drew praise from peers, performers and students
75 Entries
Valenda Newell
May 29, 2017
So sorry to hear. I remember Ernie gave my daughter her first opportunity to sing in public. He will be missed .
Rest in Peace Ernie.
Don Mika
August 26, 2012
Dear Karen, We did not hear about Ernie
until today...we were devastated! Our prayers are with you, and with all the aspiring musicians of Modesto...the central valley music scene lost it's best friend!
Our Deepest Sympathy,
Mark Rushing & Marta Lledo
October 6, 2011
A true music man, a true musician, a truly terrible loss. I expect to be hearing your trumpet from heaven.
Kristyn Sorrenti
September 20, 2011
Dear Karen, and all of Ernie's family and friends, Our family extends to you our deepest sympathy during this very difficult time. We have many good memories of Ernie, beginning when our son Mike joined Central Valley Brass. We got to know Ernie as we followed the group to concerts in Whitmore Park, and the Stanislaus Fair. Then there was the Christmas music played on the downtown streets...musicians dressed in winter garb during our warm winter. Any time we were with Ernie, it was fun. He played at Mike and Rebecca's wedding, and our east coast family was thrilled to dance to live music. We will miss seeing him at the Barking Dog, as we caught a quick lunch. What a guy. He was one of a kind.
Love to you and your family.
Sue and Richard (Dick) DuFour
September 16, 2011
In memory of Ernie, Karen, their family & friends. Peace be with you all......
cynthia holtzclaw
September 16, 2011
Dear Karen and to the rest of Ernie's family, I didn't know Ernie as well or as long as I would have liked. In the short time I knew him he made me feel so welcome and appreciated. What a remarkable man he was and I am so very thankful for the opportunities he gave me to perform with him and the band. He will be missed greatly.
Kathy Canales
September 13, 2011
Dear Karen and Family,
We are all so grateful for all of these years with you and Ernie. He's always gone so far above and beyond to help everyone he has encountered and changed all of our lives for the better. Please know that you are never alone. Thanks for being such an lovely part of our lives! Love, Anakira Gabriella, Jammy Graca, Gavril & Akira Torrijos
Anakira Gabriella
September 10, 2011
Dear Karen: Ernie was a mighty legend for all of today's area musicians. He has done so much to advance the gift of music for so many people. I will be ever grateful for his willingness (and you too!) to play for our daughter's wedding - Joe and Janine Runnels. My husband had a similar basilar stroke last year. For only reasons that we must trust God, my husband is still with us and Ernie is not. I'm so very, very sorry! My deepest prayers and sympathy are with you. I'm sure today's memorial concert will be an awesome tribute. God bless you all!
Bob and Toni Conway
September 10, 2011
I am grateful to Ernie for many things: He was a good friend; he was a great musician; he and I shared many a laugh together; and finally, he never forgot me. I played as a musician on occasion in his very successful "Little Big Band" during its early days. As a reward, he hired me years later to perform in the backup bands with Pete Escovedo, Arturo Sandoval, and my idol, the late, great Maynard Ferguson. I will never forget what an honor and privilege Ernie afforded me by hiring me to play with those greats! I will also miss our "contests" while warming up prior to MoBand concerts. Those were GREAT times! Finally, I am hopeful one of the great musicians in Modesto can continue the legacy Ernie was etching into the musical landscape. Those are big shoes to fill. Thank you again, Ernie! See you in Heaven!
Don Baughn
September 8, 2011
Saturday nights at the Barking Dog will never be the same. What a wonderfully talented musician Ernie was. His enthusiasm and energy enveloped everyone. He leaves a hole in the local music scene that can never be filled. Our condolences to Karen and their family.
Mark and Anne Looker
September 8, 2011
Even though I (Bonnie) never had the privilege to play with or for Ernie, it was always a blessing watching he and his bands play - whether at the StanCo fair, Barking Dog... There was so much talent displayed each and every time. God truly blessed Ernie, who in turn blessed others with his musical talent. Modesto has definitely lost an icon, but I know his music will live on in so many who have been mentored by Ernie. Everytime I took my mom to the fair, she had to see Ernie and his band playing....if they weren't playing, she was bummed!
Karen and family - please know you are in our thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time in your lives. May God hold you in His arms...
Bonnie & Frances Haarstad
September 6, 2011
Karen and Family,
I am saddened to see Ernie pass away. I have fond memories of us playing together in the Brass Quintet in the early 80s at weddings and functions. His musical talent and ever lasting influence of music in others and the community will never be forgotten. I still remember the little big band playing at my wedding as well. His legacy lives on....
Sara Pawlan Thissen
Sara Thissen
September 5, 2011
Im gonna miss him. He gave the opportunity to learn, grow and become inspired for us central valley kids. Without him most of us wouldnt have even been exposed to good music. Thank you, Ernie for all your hard work, dedication, and love for the music.
www.danielcasaresmusic.com
Daniel Casares
September 4, 2011
You were an inspiration to all. I will greatly miss you. Karen, you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Tammy C
September 3, 2011
Karen & Family -
I am so terribly sorry to learn of the death of your beloved, Ernie. It was such a shock,so very unreal. Please know that you are in my prayers. Ernie has left such a legacy, how special he was to so many people, especially all of the students he encouraged.
I pray that God will comfort your family in the long and stressful days ahead.
May God Bless you and your family.
Yvonne Troedson
September 3, 2011
Modesto is richer for the music that Ernie Bucio shared with us and with the people he mentored. We don't understand why he needed to leave us so soon. Let's see that his legacy lives on in others who will encourage his love of music. His energy is not gone we just need to find ways to keep it alive in his memory. Thank you, Ernie for the time we had with you. You are a true Modesto treasure.
Nancy Howared
September 3, 2011
Our lives as we know it have been changed forever with the loss of Ernie Bucio. My friend, fellow musician and soul traveler. He touched the lives of so many and changed the path of those who might not have been able to go down a musical road. In Ernie's memory, please go forward into that path of music and play like no one is listening, sing like no one can hear you and dance in the rain to the music in your hearts. That's what Ernie would like to hear. Play on!!! Rudy Merino, drummer - Merced
Rudy & Cindy Merino
September 3, 2011
There definitely will be a void in the Central Valley without the music influence of Ernie Bucio. He reminded me of my brother, Cef Jamero, who was Gustine's own "music man" for several decades until he passed away in 2008. I'm sure Ernie is playing with all his music cronies on the dance floor of Heaven. RIP, Ernie. You will be missed. My condolences to his family.
Sincerely, Luna Jamero
September 2, 2011
There will never be another Ernie Bucio! No one can ever replace him. He had enthusiasm towards music and music education like no other. There is a big hole left in Modesto and in all of the hearts of those who knew him and were lucky enough to call him friend! No performing group will ever be the same without his light and masterful talent! Heaven is so lucky and in for a treat to now have the incredible Mr. Bucio as a resident musician. Ernie...you will NEVER be forgotten and music WILL continue in Modesto and beyond thanks to you! My memories of you will last forever!
Laurie Rydelius
September 2, 2011
Our Sincerest Condolences & Prayers to Ernie's family. Thank you Ernie for being a mentor to my sons. They both grew up loving & playing music. Your influence helped them enroll in music classes throughout their school days & had made our oldest major in music so that he can teach music & pass on the love of it to others. We will miss seeing you play at the Barkin Dog. Go & be with our Lord, Rest in Peace.
Vickie Melendez
September 2, 2011
Karen, Family and all of Ernie's Students and fellow Musicians:
Ernie was a good and generous man. The joy he brought with his music will last beyond today and this generation. Thank you for sharing him with all of us! Our prayers for Ernie's eternal rest.
Jace and Tammy Menezes
September 1, 2011
Karen and Family...We send our prayers and condolences to you and your family. Your husband is one of the great people of our lives. May his reward be great in heaven. Sincerely, John, Terri, and Josie Perrino
Terri Perrino
September 1, 2011
Thank you, Ernie, for sharing your beautiful gift with all of us for so many years. This Christmas, St Joseph's will not be the same. You will be sorely missed. Please pray with us and for us, Ernie, for surely you are playing before the Throne of Jesus right now.
Leslie Klinger
September 1, 2011
So sorry to hear about the family's loss. My prayers are with you.
Margo Lowe
September 1, 2011
My heart was saddened to hear of Ernie's passing. He was a kind and talented musician when I first met him in High School through the Ceres High summer music program. What a blessing for all of us that he shared his musical talent for his whole life. He will be greatly missed. I send my healing thoughts to all his family and friends.
Sue (Sesser) Sweet
August 31, 2011
Miss you Ernie. Always will. RIP
Janet Seay
August 31, 2011
I remember playing with Ernie in the Ceres Viking band. He was still in H.S. (I was a freshman at Stan. State). Ernie was a prince. The whole Norton family loved his playing and his personality. He has influenced the Stanislaus County music scene more than any other person. What a terrible loss to all of us.
Maxwell Norton
August 31, 2011
Dear Bucio Family: Modesto music and Ernie's name were synomymous.From the "Little Big Band" to standing in with fellow musicians he will be sorely missed. My one consolation is knowing that he is now playing with Deck,Craig, Nannette, Eddie and others. The music lives on in our hearts.
Cheryl Larkin
August 31, 2011
Dear Bucio Family: We were so saddened to hear of Ernie's passing at such a young age. May God bless and keep this dear man close. He was an awesome musician and he was so good with the children. My daughter had the opportunity to march with him in the Gottschalk's band in the 4th of July parade many years ago. It was a wonderful experience for her. Our deepest sympathy.
Denise Machado
August 31, 2011
Dear Bucio Family and dear friends...just 3 yrs ago I met Ernie and have had many moments of sheer joy listening to such wonderful talent and watching all his energy flow ... .not only such a loss to family and those that knew him he will be missed in so many ways.... never another Ernie...My deepest Sympathy to all and to Martin...Rest in Peace Ernie
Marlene Swarts
August 30, 2011
Dear Karen and family
Tho' I didn't know Ernie well, I've admired his talent, humor, and musicianship as we've played in MJC Orchestra these past several years. My heartfelt sympathy to you.
Carla Escola
August 30, 2011
Was so so sorry to hear of Ernie's passing. What a loss of talent to our community and for your family. I am so sorry for the pain your family must feel. I know...
Rita Trinkler-Dellis
August 30, 2011
Beloved Bucio Family, My heartfelt sympathy to you at this hour. I was blessed to have worked with this icon. He gave me my first stand up singing job when I moved to Modesto. He will be sorely missed,never forgotten.
Dwight Mahabir
August 30, 2011
Ernie, my heart is full of sadness. You were a friend, family, uncle to my girls. Your smile was infectious, you were a teacher, mentor to young & old, friend, leader. You made us smile, think, laugh, work, play, & smoothed many souls with your musical talents. Most of all, you made each & every person fortunate enough to meet you feel important! You made our world a better place & you live on in our hearts. God needed you to lead his band of angels. RIP my friend..
Judi Saint Smith
August 30, 2011
My friend Ernie...I say that proudly. When we met I had been contemplating quiting music. He turned that around and inspired me to push hard and use everything I had to play music and play it right. How do you thank someone for that which is so priceless? His time here was too short but what he accomplished was astounding. Those of us who knew him, learned from him or simply listened to his music has had our lives enhanced by the experience. God bless and keep you Ernie Bucio.
August 30, 2011
My friend Ernie...I say that proudly. When we met I wasn't sure I wanted to continue to play music. He turned that around and inspired me to push hard and use everything I had to play music and play it right. How do you thank someone for that which is so priceless? His time here was too short but what he accomplished was astounding. Those of us who knew him, learned from him or simply listened to his music has had our lives enhanced by the experience. God bless and keep you Ernie Bucio. To Karen and family we offer our most sincere and deepest sympathy.
Mitch Scher
August 30, 2011
Karen and Family
We're so sorry to hear of Ernie's passing. Marty had kept us up to date on his status when he had the stroke.
Ernie had a big heart and his love for music was clear. He will surely be missed by many. Your in our thoughts and prayers
Linda Trask
August 30, 2011
I met Ernie about 10 years ago. Some elderly friends of mine were telling me about a man (Ernie) and his band who played the music they remembered when they were young out at a place in Oakdale once a month. I met him shortly after that and he made a very nice impression on me- he was the genuine article and much more.
Dave Foreman
August 30, 2011
Who knows what the Modesto area would have been like had you not been around to liven things up the way only you knew how to do. You were and still are an inspiration to the young and old alike. Because of you, there will be a new generation of "Ernie Bucio's" to spread the joy of music that you have instilled in them.
John Wyatt
August 30, 2011
To Ernie, We will miss you, and remember all you have done for us, musically and as an extended musical family. To Karen and your family, we wish you all the best and hope you will let us know whenever you need a little help or simply friendship. Rest in peace, Ruth Brittin, Brian Kendrick, and your Stockton musician friends
Ruth Brittin
August 30, 2011
So long Ernie my friend. Have not seen you since our Post Office days at El Viejo, but thought of you often,your great humor kept everone loose on the work room floor. As my friend Lynn said when I hear a turmpet I will think of you. Rest in peace Ernie. Jerry Combs Railroad Flat, Ca.
August 30, 2011
Ernie came to Fremont Open Plan 5 times last year with friends to teach us how to play brass instruments. He was truly amazing with kids and lit up when he shared his talent. What a loss to our community to have Ernie leave us so young. We will never forget how generous he was. He will be greatly missed!
Dorene Arnold
August 30, 2011
Uncle Ernie.. you made me smile and laugh.. you enriched my love for music... and changed so many lives. You are a hero and will definitely live on forever in my heart ... I am going to miss you so so much. Love Always, Your Niece - Courtney
Courtney SaintSmith
August 29, 2011
Thank you for all you did for Modesto and making music a key factor in
the lives of so many. You will be remembered for so much but most of
all what you gave to your community, especially the children,with such a big heart..
Deborah Buettner
August 29, 2011
Music is a complete lifestyle. It's bigger than a word. It's a much bigger force than just something you can say.
It's something you have to feel. It's something you have to live.
Ernie lived it.
Art Mataka
August 29, 2011
We are so going to miss this icon in modesto. The Brace family
David Brace
August 29, 2011
It was an honor and pleasure playing with Ernie. He had a tremendous impact on my life and made playing music fun!
Dave Yeagly
August 29, 2011
Our musical community is much richer for having had you as a member. I've asked my Dad (in my prayers) to welcome you to The Band. Please save a seat for me too. Rest peacefully, my friend.
Mike Rosenblum
August 29, 2011
I had the opportunity to work with Ernie for his ensemble's festival performance & trip to NYC. He loved music but he loved the members of his ensemble, even more! He was wonderful and it was a pleasure to have known him.
Dana Luikart
August 29, 2011
Played with Ernie in several bands; what a talent. He made a difference!
Keith Peterse
August 29, 2011
I am truly saddened and find there is a hole in my heart. Ernie was a fantastic man and I will miss him. I am a better person for having known him and his family. In my prayers.
Mary Beth Fullerton
August 29, 2011
i still can't believe ernie is gone we worked together over 30 years ago at taco bell, we had some great times, we use to box together after we closed the store, he was a big boxing fan. he is my friend and i will miss him. god bless him
bobby moulyn
August 29, 2011
There are not enough words or the right words to express our loss. Take care Karen.
Kyle Barker
August 29, 2011
Words cannot ever express my gratitude for the gift you gave my son; music. Music has profoundly shaped his life and has helped to make him the excellent gentleman he is today. Your teachings and inspiration provided an excellent foundation and I am forever grateful to you. He is proud to be a trumpeter, just like you. I am so thankful for the opportunity God gave me about a month ago, when I saw you having lunch at the Hof Brau and I was able to thank you personnally for the gift you gave my son! Thanks again Ernie and God bless.
Tim Beck
August 29, 2011
World Projects would like to express our deepest condolences to Ernie's family and friends. Ernie's performance with the Gottschalk Concert Band at Carnegie Hall was a highlight for all of us that were there. His interaction with his kids was an inspiration - he will be terribly missed by everyone.
From all the staff at World Projects, Benicia, CA
Phillip Hobson
August 29, 2011
My deepest sympathy to Karen, family, and friends. Ernie paved the way for so many musicians. My first experiences with Ernie were in the 90's as he would introduce my future band students to their first instruments, and hearing his Little Big Band at the State Theatre. He played with my jazz students at a performance in Merced's Relay For Life once. He donated his band's performance in a notable birthday party Nov. 1, 2009, at the Barkin' Dog, to name just a couple of his generous contributions. His life was full of generosity and humble service to others through the realm of music. The last time I spoke with him was Memorial Day weekend at the Sacramento Jazz Jubilee when he, Karen, Jan, and Chris came over to say hello. Always so friendly. Ernie, you are a great role model, an inspiration, and a continuing presence in our community through those who learned from you, worked with you, listened to your music. Thank you, Ernie.
Maureen Whittaker
August 29, 2011
my memories of Ernie are from when I sang with Jubilant Praise and he played in our christmas concert at the State. He will be missed. Peace to you Karen as you go through this time. May God bless you.
Lonnie Brock Modesto, ca
August 29, 2011
I've had the privilege of playing in various bands with Ernie since 1985. In the mid-90's he taught music with me in Ceres in the elementary schools. I've had the chance to watch him grow to become a local legend. He is truly a hero in the hearts of so many, especially to hundreds of kids who's lives have been touched by him and his music. He continues to live in them and in all of those who knew him. His life also speaks to the high character of his parents, family and wife, Karen, all of whom he loved so dearly. God be with all those who are now hurting and missing our friend, Ernie.
Devon James
August 29, 2011
Ernie will be sorely missed in Modesto! I didn't know him well, but I remember him as a generous and thoughtful person who was always ready to help with community events.
Thank you, Ernie. Rest in peace, friend!
Susan Lilly
August 28, 2011
My deep sympathy to dear Karen and family! Ernie always will live in my heart and mind! Gottschalk Music Center never will be the same without Ernie... The Life is One - here and there. Let be light on the Path of his Soul.
Milka Kraleva
August 28, 2011
I had the great honor of playing with Ernie, and being conducted by him when I was younger. Rest peacefully.
Julia
August 28, 2011
It is a sad day for Modesto to see an icon leave this Earth. I knew Ernie when my son played with him in a local band. He would pick my son and then drive him home after a gig. Ernie's heart was as big as his soul. We have will truly miss him.
Pauline Rosado
August 28, 2011
Moser Family
August 28, 2011
Although I had spoken to Ernie only a few times at Modesto Ballroom Dance Club, I have a high opinion of him and his generosity-especially to the kids learning to play instruments. We enjoyed his entertainment and could always count on him in a pinch to fill a vacancy when we needed him to. Numerous BDC members were much closer to him. I pray all his loved ones have strength and comfort in this challenging time. Sincerely, Mary Martel-Angel
Mary Martel-Angel
August 28, 2011
ERNIE MY FRIEND, I WILL MISS YOU AND YOUR STYLE OF MUSIC. MY MUSIC CLASSES AND THE FOURTH OF JULY WILL NOT BE THE SAME. I AM PROUD TO CALL YOU FRIEND AND BROTHER.(KKP) REST IN GOD'S PEACE!
EUGENE DAVIS JR
August 28, 2011
We will all miss Ernie. I think back on all the times we shared since he was a high school kid: MoBand, MPAA, Townsend, the restaurant, Clark Terry, cherries, Fred, his jazz band, on and on. I find it hard to think there won't be more chapters. Love to his family, and an embrace for all his many, many friends.
Cheryl Russell Pogue
August 28, 2011
My deepest sympathy to Ernies family and all who called Mr. Bucio "friend". Gentleman, gifted musician, professional...just a few words that describe my experience with Ernie.
Helen Roddy
August 28, 2011
the chains are broken. god's will be done.
jess hackman
August 28, 2011
My sincere condolences go out to his wife and family. Ernie was a great musician who we all loved and knew through music. He will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him.
I pray that your heart be lightened by the love of Christ who is watching over his spirit. May it be of comfort to know that we are all just passing by in this life to reunite through our faith in Christ. May the Holy Spirit grant you peace, and may God bless all of you in your hour of sorrow.
Trisha Villicana
August 28, 2011
I am so sorry in Ernie passing,Ernie's mom and I have been good friends for more than forty years,she was always so proud of her son.my prayers are for the family.'Mucho Amor! DoloresFlores,Planada,Calif.
August 28, 2011
I met him at work. Ernie made life at the post office on the workroom floor so much more bearable--even FUN! He's such an adorable nut :) Outside the PO, I attended a lot of his music gigs. I was always so amazed at how extremely accomplished and professional he was on stage--a true study in contrasts: his 'zany/brilliance'! Such a loyal friend. With Ernie in your corner you had far fewer worries. I'll never forget his light-hearted pranks & antics, his laugh, his music, his friendship. Ernie, for the rest of my life, whenever I hear a trumpet I will think of you...
Lynn Harmon
August 28, 2011
It is hard to express the deep loss I feel at this time. Ernie was always such a friend to everyone. I have wonderful memories of times spent through the years. I will always treasure those times. Heaven is a little brighter place today. My love and prayers are with all the Bucio's today.
Sharon Davis
August 28, 2011
The loss of Ernie will be felt for years to come as he was the heart and soul of the music in this area. Rest In Peace, my friend, and thanks for all you taught me. Love Ya!
Sheila Robinson
August 28, 2011
Ernie's laughter, energy, knowledge and love of music will be greatly missed. There are no words that really express the loss that I and everyone else feels. Just know that he was loved by all and we grieve with thee. Rest in Peace, Ernie.
Cindy Davis
August 28, 2011
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