Ernie Ong Seto

10/13/1936 - 01/24/2025
Service Date: 02/22/2025
Service Time: 12:00 pm
Service Location: Gilbert Memorial Park 2100 E Queen Creek Road, Gilbert, AZ
Visitation Date: 02/22/2025
Visitation Time: 10:00 am
Visitation Location: Gilbert Memorial Park Chapel
Interment: Gilbert Memorial Park
With great sorrow and eternal gratitude, we announce the passing of Ernie Ong Seto Sitú zi zhou), age 88. He is a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend. Ernie left us on January 24, 2025, with his family lovingly by his side, leaving behind a legacy of love, generosity, and hard work.
He was born on October 13, 1936, in Canton, China, as the fifth of nine children. At the age of sixteen, he immigrated to Superior, Arizona, beginning his new life by working at his sister's grocery store, where he gained his passion for entrepreneurship. At the age of twenty-two, Ernie joined the Army National Guard and served as a Staff Sergeant.
His next chapter began when he returned to Hong Kong in search of a wife. Ernie spotted Helen at a bus stop. Destiny brought them together when their eyes locked and at that moment he knew she was the one. They were married in Hong Kong on April 1, 1960, leading to a romance spanning over 6 decades. Ernie often joked "he would have been a 'fool' not to have married Helen."
After three weeks of marriage, Ernie returned to the US while Helen remained in Hong Kong. Their eight-year separation created a bittersweet chapter in their love story. When Helen reunited with Ernie, they started their family in Superior. In 1973, Ernie and Helen moved to Winslow, Arizona, with their three young daughters. He achieved his dream by owning Public Market and several restaurants such as Church's Chicken.
He took immense pride in raising five children, all of whom graduated from the University of Arizona. His unwavering dedication to their education and personal growth stands as a testament to his commitment to their futures. Ernie's legacy is reflected in the accomplishments and independence of his children, a direct result of his nurturing guidance and support.
He was deeply committed to the Winslow community, actively serving as a member of the Winslow Rotary, including a term as president in 1989. He was known as a man who valued
everyone, never hesitating to help someone in need.
They moved to Chandler to be near the family and to enjoy a much-deserved retirement, embracing the next chapter filled with warmth and relaxation.
Ernie's memory lives on in the hearts of his wife Helen, five children: April (Kai Fan), Tammy, Dawn (Fred Bakun), Andy, and Sandra and 10 grandchildren: Kyle and Andre Fan; Tiana, Troy, Tyler, and Tiffani Bradford; Ethan and Emily Bakun; and Milana and Mason Wernsman.
Ernie's kindness, dedication and selfless commitment will be remembered by those who knew him, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire future generations.
Visitation will be held from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm, followed by the funeral service at 12:00 pm on February 22, 2025, at Gilbert Memorial Park, 2100 East Queen Creek Road, Gilbert, AZ 85297.