Name: Powers Funeral Home
Address: Sumner, WA

Tina y familia.  I just heard about Ernies passing on TV..  I am so sorry I didn't know before.  You have my deepest sympathy. .  I worked with Ernie on many Communiry issues, back in 1970,1980 and 1990.  He was a great leader and taught me muchas cosas.  in working with community issues. 
He will be rememberd  with admiration and respect.  My payers are with you.
.Yolanda R. Martinez, Seattle

Tina:
 Con gran sentimiento me permito indicar que Ernie fue un gran miembro de nuestra familia, siempre amable sonriente y con un gran deseo de ayudar a quien se lo solicitara, nunca espero recompensa, su mayor felicidad siempre la encontro en poder ayudar.
 Sinceramente tu primo hermano, Virgilio

"As the first recipient of the Ernest I.J. Aguilar Scholarship, I have been deeply impacted by Ernie Augilar’s dedication to the success of the Latino community. The world has lost a pioneering civil rights activist, community leader and a true gentleman whose legacy will not soon be forgotten. I count myself among those lucky enough to have known this great man and I am forever grateful for all that he has done for our community."

Vanessa Brewster Laughlin

"I was a recipient of the Aguilar Scholarship at a time when I was looking for work and truly needed assistance to continue my education. Thanks to the scholarship, I was able to successfully complete my MBA and find a wonderful position in marketing. I also wanted to thank Mr. Aguilar and his family personally for inspiring me to get involved and help build future Latino leaders. My hope is that all the scholarship winners continue his legacy through their own volunteerism and community-building efforts.”

Maryleen Emeric

"Having a scholarship at the University of Washington named after Ernie IJ Aguilar is exemplary of what a community can achieve when it comes together and is inspired and guided by the remarkable life of our leader and advocate Ernie IJ Aguilar. It is recognition to many years of struggle, hard work, passion, courage and vision. Thank you Ernie for being such a visionary and for paving the road for the next generation of Latino leaders. Muchas Gracias.”

Geraldine Rodriguez

"I was so excited to be named a 2009 Ernest I.J. Aguilar scholar. The scholarship has allowed me to concentrate on my studies and to take full advantage of being a Foster MBA. But after getting to know Ernie, I truly understood what an honor it is to be an Aguilar scholar. I will always be thankful for all that Ernie accomplished and for the positive impact it has had on me."

Edward Gali

March 18, 2010

Ms. Tina Aguilar
4206 West Tapps Drive East
Sumner, WA 98391-9195

Dear Tina,

     I was very saddened to hear of Ernie’s passing. He was a dear friend to the
University of Washington and is remembered fondly throughout our community for his humor, warmth, and generosity. Ernie had a tremendous impact through his tireless efforts to promote Hispanic businesses in our region, including his contributions to founding the Washington State Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. And, of course, we have always been
very proud at the UW to have the nation’s first endowed scholarship for a Latino student in an MBA program, the Ernest I.J. Aguilar Endowed MBA Scholarship. We have directed the UW Foundation to make a donation in Ernie’s memory to this wonderful scholarship.

      While I know that words are inadequate to assuage your pain and grief, please know that you and your family are in the thoughts of many of us at the University, especially your friends in Gerberding Hall. You have my deepest sympathy.

Sincerely,

Mark A. Emmert
President

Peace and Rest be with thy Spirit and Soul. You touched peoples souls and lives in Washington State. Peace be with all of us.

On behalf of Consejo, we would like to express respectfully deep sorrow for the loss of Ernest Aguilar. 

Ernest Aguilar was an inspiration to build a better community and we will always remember him. He was a hearted and considerate person who was always helping others. His loss is a loss to all Latinos and Washington citizens.

Our sincere thoughts and prayers are with you, and we are sharing the burden of this great grief. 

With our deepest sympathy,

 
Mario Paredes

Estimada familia Aguilar, sobre todo Sra. Tina he recibido con inmenso dolor la noticia de el fallecimiento de Don Ernesto Aguilar y quiero decirles que mi familia y su servidor les enviamos nuestro más sentido pésame.

Al mismo tiempo quiero decirles que le doy gracias a Dios por haberlo conocido y tratado pues fué un gran Hombre siempre dedicado a ayudar a los demás, abrir oportunidades para todos, buscando que nos relacionaramos todos y que el comercio fluyera entre los dos paises.

Asi lo recuerdo y sepan que siempre seré amigo de ustedes y me pongo a sus ordenes.
 
Descanse en Paz Don Ernesto. 
 
Atte. Senador Felipe González González

Ernie was a wonderful man and I am so happy to have known him. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends during this difficult time and I hope the happy memories will sustain you in your grief. 

Sincerely, 

Janelle Guthrie

Thank you Mr. Aguilar for all your work in our community. We are more than ever determined to follow in your footsteps in making a difference for good of all. You will always be remembered!   


Maraming Salamat!

Stated very simply, Ernie was a role model of what a "real American" looks and acts like.  We hear that term thrown around loosely in the political arena these days, usually with the implication that only white Americans can qualify as "real Americans."  

Ernie would have reminded all other Americans that America is not, and has never been, about skin color, ethnicity, or what someone looks or sounds like.  America is a state of mind.  All "real Americans," whoever they are, love and believe in that state of mind.  The most patriotic, most "heroic" Americans among us are willing to risk their own lives to protect that state of mind.  That's what Ernie did.

We can only wish for more "real Americans" like Ernie in America, both today and in the future.  

Kenneth Moscaret, Esq.

I only met Ernest once in Auburn, when he and a delegation visited my Chamber and we met with Mayor Pete Lewis over at City Hall. What I remember most was that he put me immediately at ease and spoke from the heart. I also know a leader when I see one, and Mr. Aguilar, by his presence alone, needed no introduction as a man who could move mountains. I know he will be greatly missed…

Mike Morrisette

We heard of the passing of Mr. Aguilar. Fred and I spoke with him a couple of times but what a wonderful individual. Our prayers and thoughts are with his family. We hope they take comfort in knowing that he is with our Lord. It is not what you do for yourself in life but what you do for others; he leaves a wonderful legacy.

-Sandy

Dear Friends and Family Members of Ernie Aguilar,

It is with great sadness that we learn about the recent passing of Mr. Aguilar. We commend his tireless efforts over the years and know that he was a beacon of hope not only with the Hispanic community but for all citizens of Washington State. On behalf of the entire Department of Revenue, please know that our thoughts are with the Aguilar family.

 
Sincerely,

 
Cindi Holmstrom

Director, Department of Revenue

On behalf of the Democratic Party of Washington State I want to express our sincere condolences to the Aguilar family.  One year ago this month Ernie was honored during Hispanic/Latino Legislative Day by the Washington State Legislature who passed a Resolution noting Ernie's "unique and courageous vision, tireless public service, and legacy of accomplishments on behalf of Hispanics and all citizens of the State of Washington."  

I was in the House Gallery that day to observe the proceedings.  And while I never had the honor of getting to know Ernie, I did meet him that day and shook the great man's hand. 

Like so many other Latinos who were there that day, I shared in the honor and respect Ernest Ignacio Jose "Ernie" Aguilar brought our community that day and forever here in Washington State. 

Let us never forget his work and vision as we move forward together.

 

Sincerely, 

Luis S. Moscoso

Secretary, WA State Dems

 had the chance to meet Ernie not too long ago and the one thing I remember is how genuine he was.  That is not something that is taught…that is something that certain people are born with.  It was an honor to meet him and be in his presence.  The Seattle Sounders FC and I send our deepest condolences to all of his family and friends.

Familia Aguilar,

On behalf of the Central Washington Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Yakima, WA I would like to express my deepest condolences to the family of Ernie Aguilar who was one of the early leaders of the national Hispanic Chamber movement and was one of the founding members of the Washington State Hispanic Chamber. He has definitely left behind a legacy.  

 
Sincerely,

Bertha Alicia Garza, President

Central Washington Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

U.S. Representative Jim McDermott sends his deepest condolences to the Aguilar family, and regrets that his congressional schedule prevents him from attending the memorial service in person.  I will be attending the memorial services on behalf of Representative Jim McDermott and his District Office.   Mr. Aguilar was a pioneer for the Latino community and a leader to be admired by all Washingtonians.   Thank you all for sharing your stories and memories of Ernie.   I look forward honoring his legacy by working together to build an even brighter future for our Latino community and for all Washingtonians. 

 

Sincerely,

Rebecca Saldaña
Community Liaison, District Office
US Congressman Jim McDermott

I met Ernie in 1968, I was just heading off to College and attended a latino community gathering, at an old converted gas station in Granger Washington to hear a person of Latino decent standing on oil drums and a wooden platform  running for Office (something unheard of  at that time).

He spoke about the need for Hispanic representation and leadership at all levels of Government, &  Business.  He was running for County Commissioner in Yakima, Washington. This was at a time and place where the majority culture was not  keen on minority representation.  Against the odds he went forward anyway, not being swayed.  

This left an indelible imprint on me, going forward onto college, having a different view and perspective , of  “yes, I can”.  This has stayed with me all these years, as will Ernie.  

Ernie has left us all with many gifts, the most important one, caring and compassion for those less fortunate. 

My deepest condolences to Tina, and her family.

I had the honor of meeting Ernie when I moved to Seattle several years ago. He was a remarkable man who gave selflessly of himself for the betterment of his community.

He was a kind and visionary individual whose many contributions will ripple through all of Washington for a long time to come. His contributions, while focused on the betterment of the Latino community, transcend all barriers and cross all generations. A true role model imbued with the spirit of giving to all mankind.

We will all miss Ernie.

My deepest and heartfelt condolences to Tina and her family.
 

David Santillanes, Jr.

To Tina Aguilar and Family,
Friends of Erne Aguilar- 

While I regret that I will not be able to attend this important service due to business travel. I am currently in Canada, I wanted to share a few words with all of you...

In 1980 at the begining of my career in banking, I had the great pleasure of meeting Ernie... 

I liked him instantly and felt that he was a true leader to our Hispanic Community which at that time was small....I often listened to his vision of having a Latino Bank and a Latino Plaza and while others thought it was ridiculous, I knew that Ernie would someday make this happen. 

As one sees with time, leaders and men of great insight are often thought to be wrong by those that have no vision.

This week the PNW lost this great man and leader, however we did not lose what he shared with all of us left behind. (vision and persistence)  Maybe sometime we could all pull together and make Ernie's dream come through by naming a Plaza after him...a plaza with Consulate, banks, Latino lawyers and so much more.

Ernie while your body has left us, your passion and spirit will remain with us for ever. 

God grant you eternal peace!!

Respectfully,

Susana Gonzalez Murillo

For Ernie and his Family, 
His work and dedication to the community will inspire many others like me, as it has already during his lifetime. I am proud to consider Ernie and his wife Tina personal friends and mentors of mine. Ernie will not be forgotten.

Somehow, in daily reading of the newspaper, I missed the notice of Ernie's passing last Monday.
    Ernie was one of the "old guard", like Roger Barron, Dan Gurule, John Ybarra and other Latinos that, through service at Ft. Lewis and on to WW II, returned to Seattle and the Puget Sound region to help establish our now numerous Hispanic community. 
     New to the area as a student at the U.W., we sought, in those great days of the late 60's and 70's, to be active and contribute to the university,local,state and regional spheres of community action. It was a distinct pleasure and honor to meet  Latinos like Ernie, who were long involved in community work of the American G.I. Forum, the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), local churches and other groups. They were great role models, leaders, honored adults who advised and many became friends. 
    I knew Ernie for forty years. ALWAYS optomistic,focused on "CAN DO" approaches to problem-solving and the future and how it would benefit Latinos. I would greet him and he would take be aside, speaking very seriously. "Well you know, Aguayo, it's just like I've been telling these guys." (gesturing to those gathered) "We've got to get involved. We've got to meet these people. (important officials, etc.)We can work with them. They can help us do a lot for our gente (people)."He was right but always intent, advising and positive. I met him from time to time over the years,even as he became focused on Latino business development and I went elsewhere,  always impressed with his great attitude, depth of character and simple goodness. I have nothing negative to say of him. I marveled at his rise from poverty, his honored service in not one, but three wars, his long, dedicated work for Latinos and just to make life better. 
   Tina,our deepest, heartfelt condolences to you, to your extended family and friends in the loss of your great partner and patriarch. Remember him best in all the good that he was and all the good that he did. God be with you.

Emilio Aguayo and family-Lynnwood,Wn.

I am so sorry to hear of Ernie Aguilar's passing.  He was such a kind man who accomplished much and touched many lives.  He leaves a tremendous legacy here on earth.  My thoughts are with your family.

Compadre y Hermano/Carnal en La Causa
Peace Be With You.
Blessed is the trail you left behind:it's one adorned with so many unselfish gifts on your part of love,attention, wise consejo,carino,friendship, loyalty, encouragement,great parenting,great husband to Clementia,  kind sophistication, leadership,the best example of what GANAS is all about, useful political savyness and guidance, employment assistance, community awareness, organization and action and a dedicated committment to community progress.......most importantly, your gift of your sharing with us your deep expression to all of a love and respect for life itself and its challenges, the present moment 
and Compadre you were a powerful role model in terms of how to live it and close it out with integrity and wisdom, and an appreciation for all that was lived.

We here who knew you will always love you. You live in us. Your dreams are still and will always be our dreams. Your Spirit blazed a trail that inspires forever.
I know, if the opportunity presents itself, you'll be organzing Angels to send to help us each of us according to our needs. Your Faith is our Faith Compadre. Thank you for your strong Faith in the belief - Que Si se puede . 
Muchisimas Gracias Compadre Y Hermano for all of your many, many gifts. You will always live on. Un abrazo fuerte Para El Caballero de los Caballeros....
Paz y Amor Carnal

Thank you, Ernie.  Your words at that one-on-one 3 hour lunch we had in December have broght so much meaning to me now. I did not realize the intensity of our conversation back then and how you were viewing your time here on earth.  Thank you for sharing such Washington Latino history moments and expressing the work the next generation has to do by modifiying the system rather than against it. You will not be forgotten.

May the God of love comfort you and your family.

I met Ernie and Tina in the early 80's when we moved to Washington, and we were friends for many years, only losing contact in the last few years.  Ernie's accomplishments were many.  He was innovative and persistent in trying to improve the world, while staying mostly out of the limelight himself.  He was a warm, generous and optimistic person with a big heart.   It is sad to lose such a man, yet we know the world was a better place because he lived in it.  My thoughts go out to Tina and the rest of the family.

Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers be with you. We wanted to attend the services, but health cproblems wouldn't allow. (I felt uncertain how Henry would react to the reality of this great loss). Ernie was more than a dear freind, he was like a brother. We shall cherish the many happy memories of him in our lives and feel blessed tohave known him.
                                                                  -Henry &Wilma Beauchamp

Ernie:  Our paths crossed many times over the years fighting for a common cause. Your dedication to the advancement of Latinos spans generations and all of us in some measure owe you a debt of gratitude.  My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

John Gonsalez, former Director, DOL

I am not sure if it was Ernest, but i used to pass a gentleman on my commute every morning, for years.  He was walking, no matter what the weather up the hill in Kent.  Somehow, seeing him walk every morning made me feel that the morning was off to a good start. If he could make it up the hill, i could get through work!  I know he inspired me, and i am sure he inspired others.  He will be missed.

On behalf of Casa Latina, we send our condolences to the family and to the rest of the community. Ernie was an incredible human being--youthful in spirit even in old age. He had such an open heart and a true concern for the Latino community, especially young people.  I have so many fond memories of talking to Ernie and seeing him make connections to bring the Latino community together.  He loved everyone equally, young people, day laborers, business people.  He had a true belief in the human spirit.

It was a honor and pleaseure to have known Ernie. He meant so much to my family. I will miss stopping at the restaurant during lunch and seeing him have his donut and coffee with my dad. We have great memories of him and appreciate everything he has done for our community. You will truly be missed.

Mr. Ernie Aguilar was a motivator and a mentor to me. He made me realize my dreams and hopes for the future. Six months ago in a meeting with Nacho and I, he gave us a goal to complete. In honor of Ernie I will commit to fulfilling that goal. Over the past year I interviewed Ernie numerous times about his life story.  He was a very successful man and a role model for everyone. He will be truly missed. 
The Cortez family would like to send our condolences to Ernie's Family 
and Friends. He has touched the hearts of many throughout his lifetime.

Ernie,
You will always make me smile.
My thoughts and prayers are with all of your family.

My Deepest sympathy and condolences to MR. ERNEST AGUILAR's family. My Thoughts and prayers are with you.
Thank you Mr. Aguilar for everything you contribution to our community.You will be missed.

To the entire Aguilar family, we are so sorry for your loss. Ernie was an inspiration to many. Remember to  cherish all the memories, laughter, and love....those treasures we keep forever, let all those memories play over and over again in your heart. Love to all ~ Marcel, Marcy, Maddy & Mya Purdy

To all of the Aguilar family:....Sorry for your loss. I know he will be missed very much.....Amy Roy and Family

Our lost of Ernie is GODs gain, Ernie thanks for all you have done, for defending the rights of others, for your contribution to our society, most of all for the inspiration and assistance I received from you while I was the president for the Emilio Benevidez Chapter of the American GI Form Tacoma WA
Adios my Friend and go in peace
Antonio Fernandez
Past president American GI Form 
Tacoma WA


Dearest Tina,    I am so terribly sorry for you and your family's loss of Ernest.    There is never enough time to be with our loved ones and I am so glad you have family to be with you now.
My deepest sympathy.
Mary Levin

All of us at the University of Wasington Foster School of Business will miss Ernie. He inspired us to new heights, embrased our students, and welcomed us as a partner in building a better community. We will miss him greatly.

Mr. Aguilar was like a father to me.  He helped me see that if anything is to change we all must take a leadership role to help our children and grand children find a way for them to be all that they can be.  I hope to be able to continue with his accomplishments.  Mr. Aguilar believed in education for all.

Your an incredible man Don Ernesto, mil gracias!   Thank you for sharing your heart, vision and self to us all.  I have learned much from you in the short times we've met.  You have that effect.

Today I join many other people whose lives have been touched by Ernie to express my heartfelt condolences to his family and my admiration for a great person . I want to thank Ernie for helping me when I needed it the most, for his unwavering desire to make things better for the community and for setting an example that is not easy to follow. I will always remember fondly the experiences we had working together and the lessons I learned from him.  Thank you very much Ernie, we will miss you, but your legacy stays with us as a constant reminder of the work we need to do to become better persons to help our community.

OBITUARIO

Ernest I.J. Aguilar

19 marzo, 1919 – 15 marzo, 2010

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