Ernest Dubnicoff

Celebrating the Life of Ernest "Ernie" Dubnicoff
It is with great sadness that the family of Ernest "Ernie" Dubnicoff announce his passing on October 22, 2025, at the age of 89 in Cardiff-by-the-Sea, California, surrounded by his loving family.
Ernie will be remembered by his devoted wife of 64 years Lainie; children Carey (Danny), Robin (Mike), Todd (Kelly); grandchildren Cameron, Coley, Daisy, Ezra and Silas; siblings Jack (Carol), Esther (Hy), Dora (Elliot, pre-deceased), Gertie (pre-deceased) and David (pre- deceased); and many nieces and nephews.
Born on May 31,1936 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada to Ann and Benjamin Dubnicoff, he was the oldest of six children. From an early age, he demonstrated a strong work ethic, assisting in his family's grocery store in Whitemouth, Manitoba. These values stayed with him throughout his life. At just 13, following his father's passing, Ernie took on the role of assisting his mother as head of the household which included caring for his younger siblings. Ernie and his brothers and sisters remained close and had a strong bond throughout his life. He cherished his time with them over the years, like celebrating together at family reunions in Winnipeg where the family slogan was "Until we eat again!".
In 1959, Ernie graduated with a degree in electrical engineering from the University of Manitoba and then moved to Montreal the same year to take a job with Northern Electric.
1960 was a big year for Ernie. He moved to London, Ontario, Canada with Northern Electric and on October 30th, he met the love of his life and future wife, Lainie, through a mutual friend. Ernie and Lainie were married less than a year later on June 18th,1961. As a sign of their future good fortune and happiness, Lainie happened upon a four-leaf clover on their wedding day, a precious keepsake that she still holds close to her heart.
In 1967, Ernie earned his MBA from Western University's Ivey School of Business in London, Ontario. He was the first recipient of a bursary from Northern Electric.
By 1969, the family welcomed their three children, Carey, Robin, and Todd, and moved to the United States as Ernie took a Manager of Financial Planning position with Xerox in Rochester, New York. Leaving Canada for the United States would mean a big change for the family! After 4 years in Rochester, Ernie transferred with Xerox to Dallas, Texas. Ernie embraced the Texan lifestyle and had all the essential western gear: a 10-gallon cowboy hat, cowboy boots, and a belt branded with the monogram, "Big E". The family even frequently attended the annual Forth Worth Rodeo. He also became a loyal fan of the Dallas Cowboys and passed down his love of watching football to his kids. He was also a life-long fan of the St. Louis Cardinals, ever since listening to their games on his radio from his childhood bedroom.
After 13 years in Dallas, Ernie and Lainie moved out west to Pleasanton where life in sunny California really agreed with them! They had so much fun going on adventures all around Northern California including San Francisco. One of their favorite spots was an Irish pub, The Buena Vista, in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf, where they loved getting their favorite drink, an Irish whiskey.
Ernie and Lainie were made for each other. They loved to go on adventures off the beaten track to find tucked away restaurants, shops or trails. They enjoyed trying out new wineries and new restaurants throughout California. Their kids often joked that they were the hippest couple and knew all the "in places" which made them great hosts and tour guides for their frequent out-of-town company.
In 1990, Ernie and Lainie moved to Cardiff-by-the-Sea, an adorable beachy city in San Diego County and called it home for the last 30+ years. Ernie founded his own tax preparation service company in 1991. He built up the business over the years and became an Enrolled Agent (EA) at the age of 57. He was loved and well-respected by his clients. As he had done throughout his whole life, he worked very hard until it was time for him to retire in January 2025 at the age of 88.
His interests included photography, wine tasting and trying new dishes with Lainie. He was deeply involved in Toastmasters for many years and earned the Distinguished Toastmaster award, the club's highest level of educational achievement. He even served a term as District Governor when he lived in Dallas. He had a brilliant mind and enjoyed solving challenging crossword puzzles and was a voracious reader.
Ernie was a selfless man known for his kindness and empathy for others. His life was marked by unwavering dedication to his family. He was a loving father, a wonderful Zaidie who found joy in orchestrating scavenger hunts for his grandchildren.
Above all, he was Lainie's soulmate. Their love was a true romance. Side by side, hand in hand, their hearts full of love for one another, forever.
May Ernie's memory be a blessing.
The family would like to express their gratitude to the care team at the Hospice of the North Coast for their compassion and support during Ernie's final days. The family suggests donations to:
Hospice of the North Coast
2525 Pio Pico Dr. Suite 301 Carlsbad, CA 92008
760-431-4100