Ernest Wing Jr.

Ernest Wing Jr., 72, passed away on October 24, 2024, in Hanford, CA, after a short illness, surrounded by family and friends. Born in Hanford on August 7, 1952, Ernie graduated from Hanford High School with the class of 1970. He attended the College of the Sequoias in Visalia but left to care for his family following the premature passing of his father. Later, he graduated from the Bartending School in Berkeley, which led him to pursue a career as a mixologist at his family's legacy restaurant, the Imperial Dynasty. While running the bar, Ernie forged lasting friendships with many stalwarts in the greater Central Valley area, earning the affection of those who called him a close friend. Upon him and Susan’s pride and joy being born, James, Ernie transitioned to managing Superior Dairy, joining Susan's family business. He took great pride in spending his entire career as a key figure in two of Hanford’s most prominent establishments.

In addition to being a loving husband, father, brother, uncle, nephew and godparent, Ernie was especially proud of providing local youth with their first jobs at Superior Dairy and serving as a mentor, giving back to his community. He and Susan were honored as Volunteers of the Year after dedicating countless hours to Monroe School, where Ernie was fondly remembered for his weekly P.E. lessons and annual Chinese New Year celebrations for James's classes. A regular at Hanford High School sporting events, he was also a generous supporter of the Hanford High School 6-Man and 12-Man Booster Clubs.

Beyond his professional and philanthropic contributions, Ernie had a variety of hobbies that enriched his life and the community. He was a charter member of the Athletic Teams of the City Tramps and regularly attended their weekly lunches until his passing. A staunch supporter of the NRA, he was also an avid gun and knife collector who enjoyed the art of the deal. As a precious metal and gem enthusiast, he cherished spending time with his beloved friends, the Bookouts, at Hanford Jewelry and Loan. Ernie loved hunting and fishing, often taking family and friends out to catch their first fish or shoot their first gun. Some of his favorite days were spent watching sports surrounded by loved ones, enjoying a big spread of food. Travel was also a huge part of his life and finding fine dining to savor delicious food. While he relished an entire day of nonstop football, his true passion lay with his beloved Yankees—though he also supported the Giants when they weren't playing the Yankees.

Ernie was predeceased by his cherished wife, Susan, and his parents, Ernest and Beatrice Wing. He is survived by his son and pride and joy, James Wing; his siblings, Kathleen (Ron), Sherman (Sharon), Leilani (Richard), Jennifer, Geoffrey (Lisa), and Peggi (Chaz); and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends, all of whom adored him and will miss him dearly.

Family and friends are welcomed to a celebration of Ernie’s life on Wednesday, November 20th at 12:00 noon at the Koinonia Church, followed by a reception at the Fraternal Hall in Hanford. Family and friends are invited to view Ernie’s legacy at www.peoplesfuneralchapel.com and write condolences.

For those that wish to make a donation in Ernie’s name, please direct it to the Hanford Police Activities League (PAL) or to a charity of your choice.