Ernest Donald Chandonet

Ernest Donald Chandonet, 88 05/23/1923 ~ 04/12/2012 ENCINITAS -- Ernest Donald Chandonet passed away April 12, 2012. He was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, to Joseph and Olga Chandonet, eldest brother of Lorne P. Chandonet. Ernie began his formal art training at the Winnipeg School of Art and received his B. A., in architecture at University of Manitoba in 1946. The family immigrated to Los Angeles, shortly thereafter, where Ernie practiced architecture and pursued his life long passion for art. Ernie graduated from the Otis School of Art where he studied under renowned English Impressionist Howard Veal. His unique impressionist style was enjoyed by many through his numerous gallery showings. Ernie was active as a member and juror of the artists of the Southwest Guild and Valley Artists Guild. In 1962 Ernie renewed his interest in anthropology and joined the UCLA Archaeology team for a two year expedition to Sudanese Nubia, later completing his graduate studies at UCLA. Ernie was subsequently published in the journal of New World Archaeology for his work at the Century Ranch Excavation project. Ernie retired to Encinitas in 1989 and was very active in the community. He was a member of the B.P.O.E. Lodge #2243 and Optimists International. He became a docent of the Quail Botanical Gardens, in 1992, where he loved to take walks and enjoy nature. He always found time to help people and was a volunteer at Scripps Encinitas. Ernie is survived by his daughter, Felice N. Chandonet of Sacramento; his nephew, David L. Chandonet of Mohave Valley, Ariz. He will be greatly missed. Service will be announced at a later date. Sign the Guest Book online obits.nctimes.com