Ernest Sites Obituary

Ernest "Ernie" M. Sites passed away unexpectedly Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009. Born in San Luis Obispo in April 1958, he attended and graduated from Morro Bay High School in 1976. Ernie was full of life and an avid fisherman, businessman and coach of the Morro Bay High School football team. Ernie leaves behind his father and stepmother, Chuck and Fran Sites; sons Jeremiah, Garrett and Tyler Sites; siblings Sissy, Kit, Tony, Kami, Robin and Robert; numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews; and many loving friends, including Robin and Helen. He was preceded in death by his mother, Joan and sister, Kimmie. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 28, 2009, at the Atascadero Assembly of God, 5545 Ardilla in Atascadero, with a barbecue to follow at Atascadero Lake Park. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Morro Bay High School Athletic Department.

Published by San Luis Obispo County Tribune on Nov. 26, 2009.
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Mr. Ernest M. Sites. Rest well our fellow Pirate . I miss you Mr. Sites. You are at peace with our Lord. And the Angels are caring for you. You are in their Devine presence. God Bless you Ernest.

James Hilden

November 22, 2019

Youre in our thoughts, Ernie, just as Dee Dee and Mr. George Martines are, and always will ♥ RIP in the Heavens above.

Larry Martin

Friend

November 20, 2019

I recall fondly all of the memorable times with cousin Ernie. I visited Ernie in Morro Bay many summers as we were growing up. We would play football and fish from the peer. We would shimmy down ice plant hill to the wharf where we would spend countless number of hours fishing and telling stories. I also remember going to the Galley restaurant to eat.

I miss Ernie. He was fun, enthusiastic, a great athlete, a friend, a relative, and a fine person.

I treasure the time I spent with Ernie, his dad, mom and sister. Ernie, you will always be remembered and appreciated!

Mark Reeves

October 16, 2018

Jeremiah, I'm not sure if you will remember me. My name is Scott from New Jersey and I worked with your dad in the refinishing shop and lived on your grandfather's ranch in 1984. Your Dad was one of the strongest individuals I have ever met, both physically and metally. he was always very nice, my thoughts go out out to you and your family. Your Aunt Sissy might remember me also. I used to sing "Jeremiah was a bull frog to you all the time, your father got a kick out of it. Please e-mail if you like at [email protected] Take Care

Scott Watson

June 9, 2015

Funny how memories, atleast fun ones, last a life time... Well, being one of the lucky ones to have been invited to your wedding at Zaca Lakes, I always think of you, Ernie as I pass the off-ramp in either direction. ALWAYS!! Please kiss my mom & gram for me - God Speed

February 18, 2015

I worked for Ernie refinishing antiques back in 1984, I actually considered him a friend and partner more than a boss. I am possibly moving back to SLO and thought to look him up on the Internet. When i found that Ernie passed away, it brought back all of the memories of what a good guy Ernie was. I am sure the people in his life that new him best miss him very much. I will always remember Ernie taking me under his wing and teaching me how to refinish antiques. To this day, I love to take an old peace of furniture and make it new again. Ernie taught me that by taking something old and warn out, and bringing it back to life is a major accomplishment that not only applies to an object, but it is a good way to live your life in all the interactions we do. I know Ernie is in a higher calling now, and I hope to see him again some day.

Terry Jones

January 26, 2012

I am so shocked at your loss of Ernie. I have known his family since before he was born. I am very sad for his family.I haven't seen Ernie for many years, but the loss of Ernie is over whelming.My love goes out to the family and to Charles, he has lost something very wonderful.Please feel free to contact me at any time at my e-mail [email protected]. I am very saddened, he was a wonderful child and I am sure he grew up to be a wonderful father and son.He will be very missed

Janet (Hinely)Van Dyne

May 9, 2010

janet van dyne (hinely)

May 8, 2010

What you say Jeremiah is so very true. Life is fragile in so many ways! You describe your experience with such clarity here with your words. Thank you for sharing and allowing us ALL to hear from Ernie and Dee Dee's first born... We ALL love your mom and dad, and only want what is BEST for YOU and YOURS'.

LWM Jr.

January 18, 2010

Thank you all so much for your kind words and great stories about my Dad Ernie. I come here daily to read the stories you all post, it puts a smile on my face and reminds me what an amazing person my Dad was. I dont know why he was taken from us at 51, I have to think he had accomplished what he had set out to do on this plane and was needed on another. I know I have two Angels by my side now.

Life is fragile and can be taken from us at any moment w/ out warning - cherrish the relationships you have with your loved ones ... they are so special.

Jeremiah Sites

Jeremiah Sites

January 11, 2010

My condolences to all of the families. I roomed with Ernie in the late 70's, we also worked together at Brebe's at the Pier and at the antique shop. Ernie was one of the best people I have ever known. I wish I had been able to stay in touch with him over the years. When I read about Ernie's passing it hit me as if we were still rooming together. I will remember our incredible times together forever

Keith Hafner

December 31, 2009

I was stunned to hear about Ernie. My condolences to the family. He was a Great Guy! My son was also very sorry to hear about Ernie as he played youth football for him. He gave to his family and the community. He will be missed.

Mike Wiggins

December 31, 2009

I would like send all my condolences out to the Sites Family. For I know he will be missed in so many ways that words cannot touch. He was friends with a lot of people in this community and will be missed. I spent some very special times with Ernie in his last days and even made him some breaky of which he loved. We, at one of our last conversations discussed albacore fishing and the El Pato sauce that his father loved to glaze it with. He wanted to go fishing with me before thanksgiving and I said sure. I loved that guy and know he is in a peaceful place. Ernie, Mikey will always be thinking of you and I will one day join you in the waters of Estero Bay. Chuck,Siss,Myself,Miah,Garrett,Ty and rest of the family will always be thinking how special you were to those and yours
God Bless my friend

Michael Couture

December 15, 2009

I feel very sad about the passing of my cousin Ernie. My loss and regret is not seeing Ernie and his family over the many years that have gone by. I know he was a very energetic son, brother, father, and friend. By the response in this log I know he was loved by all he touched. He was taken from this world much too soon. The news of his passing very strongly affected his Uncle Rex and Aunt Marty from Phoenix.
They expressed their sadness and send prayers to his family.
Ernie is now at the Lords side, he will be missed so much.
Thanks for letting me reflect on the great qualities of Ernie Sites and his obvious impact on the world, his family and community.
Our thoughts, prayers and love do certainly follow his family.

Mike and Jan Wilson

December 8, 2009

Dang, What a loss, I knew Ernie for over 40yrs, 1 of the most talented athletes & good "Men" to ever grace the MBHS sports fields, He more than once pushed Me to better attempts at the shot putt and discus. Gods team just got bigger & better, You will be terribly missed Ernie.

Ken Peters

December 6, 2009

Dear Site's Family,

Ernie was a dear, dear friend of mine. All my memories of Ernie are fond. We had a great group, we ran with. It would take months to tell all the tales and fun we had.

On my mind, on my lips, and in my heart.
Kerrie Mcgrew Morris

December 6, 2009

To the Sites Family-

So many wonderful things to say about Ernie. As a fellow MBHS student (1 year behind Ernie) and athlete, I was always impressed by Ernies ability as a running back, might be one of the best to ever put on a pirates uniform. His pure strength, power & agility not to mention his speed was outstanding. Ernie played with no fear, all out and gave it his all.

Some years after High School I was oddly enough the UPS driver that stopped at his store in Morro Bay each day. I always considered Ernie a friend, certainly an outstanding coach and most of all, the best father, son, brother one could ask for. I will sure miss you Ernie, all that knew you will. Sad day for us all....

Kevin Kane (Class of 1977)

Kevin Kane

December 5, 2009

Ernie and I got to be friends back in the first grade. use to play kick ball and get into trouble. later when we were older I would stop by his house when I delivered papers and we would play on the tree swing over the bluff, and go get donuts at the donut shop there. In high school he became one of the best football players I have seen. Morro Bay high school has lost a truly great coach and person. I will truly miss him. My thoughts and prayers go to his family and friends. Ben Elmore

Ben Elmore

December 5, 2009

We would like to encourage all who knew and cared about Ernie to donate to a memorial fund which has been established in his name at Morro Bay High School.

The school is planning something special as a remembrance to Ernie and all that he did for athletics as a student and coach at MBHS. Perhaps, a bench in his name at the football field he loved so much. They are just beginning to toss some ideas around.

Contributions should be made out and sent to:

Morro Bay High School
Attn: Annette Bunnell
235 Atascadero Road
Morro Bay, CA 93442

Please notate on the memo section of your check "Ernie Sites Fund"

Thank you,
Susan (Cefalu) Maharry and Lisa (Rockwell) Brogan

December 4, 2009

I was sorry to hear the passing of Ernie. We were in the same class at MBHS and I will always remember his quick and contagious smile. I am so sorry for your loss.

Lisa Steele

December 4, 2009

To all of you who have so lovingly expressed your love for Ernie..
We all thank you so much, and have so little way of telling you how much it means to all of us.
Everyone has such special memories of my brother and he has left such a wonderful place in our hearts. I am so proud of the boys, and my parents. I cant even tell you how strong that they have all been. Now that the quiet is setting in, I just prey that we all take to heart that every moment is so very precious, and make sure that those special people in your life know how much you love them. Thanks to all for everything. Miss you Ern!
Sis

Sissy Sites

December 1, 2009

I have so many great memories of summers past, spending time in Morro Bay with my family and cousin Ernie's family. It is so sad and still so hard to believe that he is gone. My prayers and love go out to his wonderful dad Chuck and the whole Site's clan. With his passing I hope that he is resting peacefully. He will be missed.

Lynne Amos

December 1, 2009

December 1, 2009

Ernie was the first person I met when I moved to Morro Bay in 1963 and he lived down the street from me. As kids we used to hang out on the waterfront, fishing, whatever...Just the other day I found an old photo showing me and two of my brothers with Ernie taken on the morning of the first day of school at Morro Elementary. To the Sites family, my thoughts and prayers are with you.

Larry Newland

December 1, 2009

To the handsome young man in the lettermans jacket who always had a smile when you passed in the halls of M.B.H.S. I will miss you!

Julie Kirchner-Cannon

November 30, 2009

My sympathy to Ernie's family. I remember Ernie from MBHS and have not seen him for many years. He will be fondly remembered.

LeeAnn (Rappe) Girardeau

November 29, 2009

Ernie's smile was alway so welcoming. My son (Christopher Alpaugh) had Ernie as a coach at Morro Bay High. Ernie lived across the street from my mom, Barbara Playan a while back. And he really was a charming, caring man. We will miss him and my prayers are with his family.
Diane Playan

Diane Playan

November 29, 2009

joseph melone

November 28, 2009

I could not have asked for a better brother in law than Ernie Sites. We were family, best friends, and my life will always be enriched and better because of his "bigger than life" heart, strength, and personality. My Family was blessed to have had the chance to call him one of ours and I will never forget his presence...How can I !!...Everytime I see my Nephew, Ernies son, Jeremiah, which is quite often but not enough, I just have to smile now and know that a very special man has given us a wonderful young guy who I am proud to know and call my Nephew, the presence of Ernie will live on...can't keep a good man down !......Mike Martines, and all the Martines Family

mike martines

November 28, 2009

I am so deeply sad & touched to hear about Ernie. I have a very loving & special place in my heart for him. In addition to his boys and fishing, Ernie loved listening to the Blues. Some of my favorite times with Ernie were at Blues Festivals. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends. I hope Ernie is at peace and fishing with his Lord. Mary Lynn

Mary Lynn

November 28, 2009

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I am so incredibly sad to hear about Ernie's death. I have a special place in my heart for him. In addition to loving his sons and fishing, he loved listening to the Blues. Some of my favorite times were spent at Blues Festivals with Ernie. I am attaching some photos of Ernie at his best. Love to all his family and friends. Mary Lynn

Mary Lynn

November 28, 2009

Ernie and I blocked for each other as gridiron warriors in high school. He was a lot faster and had a lot more talent. We met from time to time at home games at HBHS and I followed his coaching career through my father. He was a tremendous player, coach, and father. He will be sorely missed by all. He left an imprint on the central coast that will live on for many generations. My dearest sympathy to his family.

Go Pirates,
Sam Boyd, Jr.

Sam Boyd, Jr

November 28, 2009

I met Ernie in 5th grade. I have many childhood memories of hi
. I am so sorry for your loss. RIP Ernie. God Nless all of your family and friends. Jonmari Loving

Jonmari Loving

November 28, 2009

I will always remember my fun little cousin who seemingly always had a ton of energy and a big smile on his face...it's sad to hear of his passing. My condolences to his family and loved ones.

Dwayne Murray

November 28, 2009

My heart goes out to all his friends and family.We had alot of funny and crazy times in high school.I had'nt seen Ernie in a long time. How sad, we lived in the same town.So every once in awhile pick up the phone and call an old friend just to see how their doing!!!!

SHAWN CHAPMAN (REASOR)

November 28, 2009

I worked for Ernie many years ago in Morro Bay. He was a fun and happy go lucky guy. Please accept our deepest sympathy as we share in your sorrow. Ernie will be missed by many, and remain a memory in the hearts of all the lives that he has touched.

John & Jan Der Garabedian

November 28, 2009

Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. May God's peace that surpasses all understanding be with you.

Jeff Joanne Kayla Barto

November 28, 2009

Heart felt prayers go out to the family & friends. It is so, so sad that Ernie has passed away. Just does not seem like he should be gone.
Here is a part from a poem for you:
"Do not think of me as gone - I am with you still - in each new dawn."

May God's Blessing with be you all.

Pamela Craig

November 28, 2009

Our hearts go out to the Sites family. We will miss Earnie terribly but smile deeply when we think of our times together. We love you.

John&Meredith Fennacy

November 27, 2009

My heart felt sympathy to the family and friends who knew Ernie. I spoke with Ernie about a week ago we talked for awhile and remembered the good times we had in high school. I met Ernie while we were both on the track team. He had a good heart and would always say hi and ask how are you doing. We will miss you very much Ernie. James Hilden

James Hilden

November 27, 2009

Sending Lots Of Love To The Family Of Ernie Sites. My Husband Met Ernie Through George Martines. My Son who is A Jr. At MBHS was coached by Ernie this Year in Varsity Football. Last time I Saw Ernie was at one of our Varsity Dinners a Few Weeks ago. I will Always Remember His Big Smile. We are All Saddened by this Loss. Thanks Coach, You Will Be Missed..Lots of Love Kendra & Dean & Cody Johe XO XO XO

Kendra Johe

November 27, 2009

My heart goes out to the family. I played football with Ernie and was hoping to see him again. I considered him a friend and am shocked because we are the same age. He will surely be missed. Richard Gillette

richard Gillette

November 27, 2009

Ernie you will be missed and remembered by us all, My heart goes out to your family and friends.Sincereley Suzie Jones . San Luis Obispo,CA

November 27, 2009

Ernie was my love & my friend! He loved me very much! We were to be married in a couple of years! He also loved my 5 dogs very much. Ernie had a very big heart! He had a bicycle business out of our home in Atascdero and planned on opening a bicycle shop next year. He loved his family & friends very much! His greatest accomplishment was raising his 3 boys Jeramiah, Garrett,and Tyler whom he loved with all his heart!! Ernie cried with joy when he found out he would be coaching Morro Bay football for the 18th year! He also coached track for 10 years. Ernie had injuries that stopped his playing football but he told me he would do it all over again! I will love Ernie till the day I pass from this life! I love you with all my heart Babes!!!!!

Helen Hilden

November 27, 2009

I'm so very sad to hear of Ernie's passing. I met Ernie in the first grade and we stayed close friends all through high school. Such an awesome guy.....I'll never forget him.
My sincere condolences go out to his family.

Lisa (Rockwell) Brogan

November 27, 2009

Ernie was introduced to me by his sister Sissy a year ago. He was my love and my friend! We were to be married in a couple of years! Ernie had a big heart he loved my dogs and myself. He had a bicycle business at our home in Atascadero and wanted to open a bicycle shop this next year! I loved him very much! He will be missed by me his family and his many friends! His life touched many many people. I will hold my many memories of him forever! he cried when he found out that he would be able to coach football for his 18th year! He told me even though he had several injuries that prevented him from continuing playing football years ago he would do it all over again! He also coached track for 10 years! His greatest accomplishment was raising his 3 boys Jeramiah,Garrett,& Tyler He loved them with all his heart! He loved all of his family & friends dearly. I know he is at peace in God's hands & I will hold my memories of him dearly & will love him till the day I pass! I love you Babes!!!!!

Helen Hilden

November 27, 2009

Einie's sister Sissy introduced us a little over a year ago. Ernie & I were in love & to be married in a couple of years. He knows I loved him very much! I know Ernie is at peace and in God's hands now! I miss him terribly! His life was not in vain he touched many peoples lives, he had a very big heart and I am so grateful to have had Ernie in my life no matter how short his presence touched my life!All my love Babes! Helen Hilden

helen Hilden

November 27, 2009

Ernie you will be miss greatly.My condolences to your family .love the Lewellings

Tony Lewelling

November 26, 2009

For my sweet brother,I say thank you. He was the best big brother a girl could ever have. There just was never enough time to say I love you. So please in his honer today make sure you go out and tell some one how much you care about them.

Kit Burke

November 26, 2009

Ernie was the best track coach I could have ever asked for. He was a mentor and father figure for me for a number of years and I will miss him tremendously. So much love for his family and friends through this sad time. xoxox Pacow

Emily Pahlow

November 26, 2009

I am so saddened for the loss I will miss him greatly. My earnest condolences. He was a good friend for many years. May God comfort the family during this time of grief. Love Matt Escobedo

Matt Escobedo

November 26, 2009

Our family sends its condolences to the Sites family. I also remember playing little league with Ernie, and he was always friendly and fun to be around, while also being one heck of a good second baseman! Ernie is playing on one outstanding team right now! God bless and keep you Ernie, and may He protect your family in their time of sorrow. Swing away Ernie...

Mike and Erin Baty

November 26, 2009

I was introduced to Ernie by John Martines, Ernie's brother -in-law, when he worked in George's antique refinishing shop out back on the 5. I will always remember Ernie as a kind, strong, and hardworking person, the star athlete from Morro Bay. May you rest in peace.

John Martin

November 26, 2009

To the Sites Family,

George and I send our sympathy to the Sites Family. Ernie left us too soon, but he blessed us with our wonderful grandchildren.
The Brehmers

November 26, 2009

I'm so sorry to hear the news of Ernie's passing away. Memories of long ago came rushing into my mind, of playing little league baseball together at Morro Bay Elementry, to high school sports, and even later in life crossing paths, and watching him coach MBHS football. I must confess my friend, that times like this, I was not as good a friend as I should of been, thinking that we had many more days in the bank. God has blessed us all with His grace and love, which we can't earn. In His love now and forever.

Oran

November 26, 2009

Our Condolences to the Sites Family. Ernie was one of the first people we met moving to Morro Bay and has always helped my boys in there playing careers with Morro Bay and beyond. He was a gentle-man with a big heart. RIP

the Stollmeyer Family

November 26, 2009

I am so saddened to hear of Ernie's death. I extend my deepest and most sincere sympathy to all of Ernie's family. He was a good friend and such a meaningful part of my youth. So many memories...I will keep him in my heart forever.
Peace to you my friend.

Susan Cefalu-Maharry

November 26, 2009

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