Ernesto, or Erning as he is fondly known to close friends/relatives, is the 2nd child of the late Elino Estrella Elido and Gavina Flores.  He was born on December 27, 1924 in San Fernando, La Union in the Philippines.  His siblings are Carlos Elido (deceased), Consuelo Elido (deceased), Avelino Elido (deceased), Natividad Salanga (deceased), Buenafe Elido (deceased), Romeo Elido and Lourdes Castro.

Born and raised in a coastal town probably made him a water lover leading him to pursue a career in the merchant marine academy.   He met Carlota (Carling) in a welcome party in Manila, tied the knot in 1952 and they were blessed with 2 sons, Ernest (1955) and Ray (1963).

After a 5 year stint in the Philippine Navy, he worked his way up from 3rd mate, 2nd mate, chief mate, then master (Captain).   He was always sailing the “seven seas” which was not easy for him, being a major breadwinner, to leave Carling to single-handedly rear their two sons.    His being a “jetsetter” made him sort of an on demand geography resource person to us.

He and Carling migrated to Hawaii in 1987.  Despite being a merchant marine captain by profession, he was not choosy as to what job to apply for just to be able to provide for the family’s needs.  Among his jobs were cleaning houses, being a security guard and a parking attendant.

He was a man of few words, was very reserved and preferred to keep to himself.   He was a simple man and was happy with a simple life.   He was a religious person who regularly prayed in front of the altar of the Sacred Heart of Jesus at home.   A boxing aficionado and sports buff, he usually worked out by jogging in place and shadow boxing.  He was always up to date on boxing events in HBO up to the time of of his hospital confinement.

Erning and Carling eventually retired and as they both became older with medical problems setting in, they complemented each other’s handicap, Erning having a bad knee and Carling having back problems.   Being more able to carry loads, he took care and assisted Carling until the very end.

He will surely be missed but it eases the pain knowing that he is in a better place right now. 

Farewell Erning, Ling, Dad, Grandpa, a hui hou!