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Ernie ABUGOV Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Ernie ABUGOV
46 Entries
John Coulbourn
December 12, 2024
After more than 20 years reviewing the performing\ arts in Toronto, I know first hand that not all the stars in the arts are on stage. Some, like Ernie, shine brightest behind the scenes. I´m so very glad I had a chance to know him. Consider this a five star review of a fine man.
paul smitz
December 11, 2024
I am so sorry to hear this news Ernie. I remember many wonderfully funny times we shared over the years with the Ballet and several other companies across the country. You always thought the best of everyone and never do I remember you not being up beat. My sincere condolences to your family. Rest in peace.
Amanda Ram
November 13, 2024
We were so sad to hear of Ernie's passing. My heartfelt condolences to Sandra and Ernie's family and friends. While I did not get to work directly with Ernie, he was so open and fun whenever we connected at events and I know his dedication and presence was so foundational here at the Ballet for many years. He will be missed.
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Eric and Marion Jones
October 10, 2024
I always enjoyed meeting Ernie at EYC. He was infectiously happy and entertaining. I enjoyed sailing and chatting on each other's boats. We will miss his sunny aura. Our condolences to Sandra and his family.
Marni Strome, Don Schraefel
September 30, 2024
This is a beautiful obituary and although we didn´t know him, we are moved by his wisdom and his apparently buoyant spirit- which he certainly passed on to his daughter. Sending much love and condolences Marni and Don
Jill Johnson
September 26, 2024
Joining the chorus of love and remembrances for Ernie. Starting with, can't you just hear Ernie saying "hi guys"! So fitting that he greeted us from the great beyond with that very same phrase.
Sending love, heartfelt condolences, and embraces to the Abugov family and to the NBOC family.
No matter what province or country NBOC was in, with his dulcet radio voice and the highest level of professionalism, Ernie called thousands of dancers to the stage and calmed frayed nerves before, during, and after premieres, full lengths, mixed bills, and every kind of program in between. As many have said here, it was always reassuring to hear the keys on his belt, see the bounce in his step, and connect with the twinkle in his eye. His humanity, care, investment and deep regard for art and artists was felt in the countless ways he prepared the stage, from load-in to load-out, so we could realize and do our best work. And, when things didn´t go well, Ernie was always there as a calming force when a set piece had gone rogue, a costume or pointe shoe needed quick repair - or someone needed an ice pack, a water bottle, kind words of support, a check-in, or a shoulder to cry on. Ernie also acknowledged dancers as whole people. He invested in our lives outside of the studio and stage and was the keeper of stories and memories long forgotten by many. When Ernie asked you how you were, he meant it. His `welcome home´ energy greeted every single NBOC alum who returned for a visit. We have been the lucky beneficiaries of his work, authenticity, love, and soulfulness. What a legacy he has left! Ernie, I miss you already! Grateful to have had the honor to know, learn from and work with you. Hope to do you proud as we humbly carry your light forward in theaters around the world. Raising a glass in your honor beloved friend. Love always, JJ
Mike Cummins
September 26, 2024
Ernie was a super friendly guy who did lots of sailing. He always had time for a chat in the dock. He will be missed.
Fair Winds and RIP Ernie.
Mike Cummins EYC
Sonia Rodriguez
September 24, 2024
I am filled with terrible sadness at the news of Earnie's passing. He was one of those few people who imprints himself into everyone he meets. His kindness, thoughtfulness, gentle demeanor and humor made him a wonderful friend and his passion, knowlege, quiet but strong leadership and work ethic an invaluable colleague and asset to the NBOC.
I carry so many happy memories and gratitude for having had the oportunity to share so many experiences on and off the stage with him. He was a constant in my professional life for many years and later in life, together with Sandra, also a wonderful friend to my mom. They shared birthdays, a love for food and many laughs, and this is how I would like to imagine them, reunited reminiscing and joking together.
With a heavy heart and all my love I send my deepest condolences to Sandra, his family and friends.
Avinoam Silverman
September 23, 2024
My deepest condolences to Sandra and Ernie´s family. Ernie would always take the time to ask me how my family was doing back home. He truly cared about people and was so kind. A very fond memory I have is when I asked him if I could get a copy of a show I danced in to show to my parents he said: yeah I´ll do it for you but keep it quiet as it was technically not allowed, but he knew how much it would mean to me to be able to share that with them. That is just the kind of person he was a real Mensch! My best wishes and thoughts are with you and your loved ones.
Pam Ouzounian
September 23, 2024
Dear Sandra - my sincere condolences to you and Ernie´s family. Ernie was truly one of kind and will be missed by all who knew him. Always kind, calm and helpful to anyone he met.
Rebekah Rimsay
September 23, 2024
I am so deeply saddened by Ernie's passing. decades of my career, Ernie was a constant source of support, humour, and wisdom. He had the ability, and generosity of spirit to detect and diffuse my nerves with the perfect words of wisdom, commiseration or encouragement, knowing what I needed in the moment. He was the first person I ever knew to don Crocs, everyday - many of us were skeptical at first - but then the world followed. Ernie was a trend setter and set a welcoming, positive tone backstage. I like to imagine that Ernie, where ever he may exist now, is still humming a score, with a wry, knowing smile, a twinkle in his eye, stage managing the universe for a calm, smooth show. With love, gratitude and respect, rest in good humour Ernie. I send my heartfelt condolences to Sandra, his close family, and friends.
Nadia Potts
September 22, 2024
I always think so fondly of Ernie who was always there backstage with support and an encouraging word to help me through the performance jitters. I have a terrible sense of direction and Ernie, knowing that I had this problem, used to check in with me to make sure that I could find my way from backstage to my dressing room.
He was always so kind and understanding as well as being an incredible stage manager.
Harold Gomez
September 21, 2024
Ernie,I am one of many work friends who enjoyed your company. As principal clarinet and music librarian for 20 years I appreciated your many smiles and kind words while we contributed to so many National Ballet performances. My wife, Nadia Potts often told me that you helped many dancers to keep calm with your kind words. I send my best wishes to your family. Thanks for being you Ernie.
Janisneilson&sympatuci.ca
September 21, 2024
Ernie took care of me after my one and only experience of a mugging in London Ontario Hw was very kind and bit the police to help me. I was helped less with no money and no passport and no id
Sonia Klimasko
September 21, 2024
Love to Sandra and all of Ernie`s family. Ernie was one of a kind. I will never forget how the bus driver pronounced his name on our European tour and I remember him every time I see a pair of crocs. We miss you Ernie!!!!!
Terry Murray
September 20, 2024
My heartfelt condolences on your loss to Lorne especially and Ernie's other family members and friends. Lorne, he sounded like a great guy and having recently lost sibling, I feel for you.
Terry Murray, Toronto
(Carleton University classmate of Lorne)
Alison Potter
September 20, 2024
It was a great privilege to have met Ernie. He was always quick to smile and was a wonderful presence backstage. I was so delighted to see him at Etobicoke Yacht Club after he retired from the National Ballet. Truly a gem of a human being. Condolences to Sandra and the rest of his family.
Sandy Robinson
September 20, 2024
A light has gone out. So fortunate to have known Ernie. My condolences to his family.
Jean-anne Moors
September 20, 2024
I remember Ernie so very well; his dedication to the National Ballet for over 40 years was absolute. He was an unsung hero. My heartfelt condolences to his family .
Maurizio Baccante
September 19, 2024
Rest in peace my friend. I cherish your memory. My thoughts are with your loved ones.
Lars e Tilander
September 19, 2024
My time with the National Ballet was blessed with the larger than life. There were many heartfelt discussions about life and above all, many many laughs. It is the laughter I will carry in my heart as I think of Ernie
Etienne Lavigne
September 19, 2024
My heartfelt condolences to Sandra and Ernie's family and friends. I was one of the lucky one that was able to share in his good humour and his easy going professionalism for almost 20 years. He was an extremely empathetic person and in a building where sympathy is always needed, he was a first responder. He will be missed but he was loved by many, including myself.
Charlene McLean
September 19, 2024
I have such fond memories of working with Ernie. He was a treasured friend and I am grateful for the time we got to spend together and laughs we shared. My thoughts are with his family.
Ann & John Kubacki
September 19, 2024
Ernie was our friend and next door neighbour when our families were raising our very young children in Mississauga. It was a wonderful time as our 5 kids enjoyed each other while we got together to commiserate and catch our breath.
Ernie was warm and always smiling, a lovely friend and presence in our lives. And he loved his family so very much.
We have so many great memories of Ernie, Chris, Jamie and Gillian.
Cheers Ernie!! Here´s to the good times and the laughs we shared!
Ann & John Kubacki
PS...does anyone know what happened to his Lada ?
Lennox Toppin
September 19, 2024
I treasured my time at the National Ballet, and Ernie was one of those people who made it that much more special. We had such great times behind-the-scenes - whether it was the backstage experience, or sharing lunch laughs with Sandra in the cafeteria. Ernie, you will not be forgotten, and your memory will continue to bring a smile to my heart.
michael clarfield
September 19, 2024
Ernie was such a special person
In all my years as Company Physician i attended many performances. The first contact was always Ernie
He always made sure i was taken care of and ensured I had everything prepared for my evening as physican at the Ballet
He was so amazing and I always felt better after spending some time with Ernie
he will be missed by me and my family and so many
Joanna Ivey
September 19, 2024
The man behind the magic - I have too many fond memories of Ernie to count from his days as Stage Manager for the National Ballet. Ernie's empathy, warmth and good humour (not to mention his uncanny ability to sleuth out where leftovers might be found after an event) were part of the day to day fabric of life at the NBOC. Heralded by the jangle of his giant set of keys, he would turn the corner, sparkle in his eye, wry smile and, with sincere interest, ask about your day (your kids, partner, health etc). He was a oner. My sincere condolences to Sandra and family-he will be remembered with love by us all.
David Briskin
September 19, 2024
Ernie was the heart and soul of The National Ballet of Canada for 42 years. His grace, humour, generosity and professionalism were an inspiration to all who had the privilege of knowing and working with him. He will be missed.
David Briskin
Music Director and Principal Conductor
The National Ballet of Canada
Sonia Klimasko
September 19, 2024
On tour in Winnipeg with the National Ballet at a costume/garlic party.
Kim Penzhorn
September 19, 2024
Sending my love and hugs to everyone who knew Ernie. I grew up with the National Ballet because my dad worked there too, dealing with all things backstage. Ernie always greeted me with a smile, a laugh, a twinkle in his eye....such kindness, that I remember it vividly all these years later. Ernie, I hope you and Dad (Dieter) are sharing a good catch-up somewhere! xo
Nancy Plancke
September 19, 2024
Ernie was the kindest, gentle soul. He was my dance stage manager mentor and true friend. Thanks for everything...
Tiffany Fraser
September 19, 2024
My sincere condolences to everyone who loved him. Ernie´s love for story telling and Crocs will forever be in my heart. He was one of a kind and will never be forgotten. Thank you Ernie for always being a source of love and laughter at the NBoC.
Lynn Kuo
September 19, 2024
What a terrible loss to lose dear Ernie! I remember him fondly backstage at the National Ballet and especially him in his Crocs! You will be missed, Ernie. Condolences to his family and loved ones.
Angela Rudden
September 19, 2024
I remember Ernie finding a band aid to tape up my scraped knee one time when I was riding to work with my viola on my back, and got doored. Despite all his pre-show duties, he took time to help calm me down before sending me down to the pit.
I will always remember kindness and humour
Yolande Auger -Grosman
September 19, 2024
My deepest condolences to the family !! I will always have fond memories of him backstage for so many years at the National Ballet !! He will be missed
Julia Drake
September 19, 2024
I loved working with Ernie and am so grateful to have been able to have such a cheerful, lovely colleague.
larry toman
September 19, 2024
What a wonderful, genuine human being Ernie was. He certainly was loved by all. I send my deepest sympathies to all the family. Larry Toman, National Ballet Orchestra, viola for 39 yrs, until 2014.
myke stoel
September 19, 2024
ernie was truly a rare , lovely person. always made life a NBOC a warm experience.
Mike Lewandowski
September 19, 2024
Sending lots of love and hugs to Sandra and the entire family. Ernie you were one of a kind, and I´m grateful I got to work with you at the NBoC. I will always remember you for your humour, care for all the members of the company and many unforgettable stories.
Andrea Burridge
September 19, 2024
Ernie - you will be so missed. You were such a comforting presence - running the backstage at the National Ballet of Canada. I will remember your smile and your easy going nature.
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