Ernest T. Rebugio

Ernest Rebugio, 49, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loved ones, on Wednesday, May 21st, 2025. Born on June 28, 1975, in San Jose, CA, to Eustaquio and Marcelina Rebugio, Ernest was a beloved son, husband, father, brother, and friend. He touched countless lives with his quiet strength, unwavering kindness, warm smile, and deep devotion to family.

Ernest had a humble and fulfilling life growing up in San Jose, where he established trust and loyalty with a close network of friends that spanned decades. He attended Independence High School, where he proudly played on the football and track &field teams, showing early proof of his dedication, teamwork, and determination. His speed and flair on the field earned him the DJ name “E-Swift,” and he became a proud member of San Jose’s Downlow Productions. Ernest also had a lifelong passion for cars, especially his cherished blue 5.0 Mustang, which he loved to drive and race. Over the years, Ernest pursued personal passions including kickboxing, jujitsu, Filipino martial arts (Eskrima), Boxing and most recently, E-Biking. Whether on the field, behind the turntables, behind the wheel, or in the gym, Ernest brought heart, style, and authenticity to everything he did.

To friends and colleagues, Ernest—also known as Ern, Ernie, or Ernesto—was a quiet but constant source of support, humor, and wisdom. He dedicated much of his professional life to serving others through roles in customer service and inside sales, working at Cisco Systems and Polycom in San Jose. For the last 13 years in San Diego, Ernest served as a Senior Customer Care Specialist at Illumina. He became a pillar of the team—mentoring newer employees with patience and generosity and earning the respect and gratitude of colleagues across the company.

Outside of work, Ernest fully embraced his most treasured role as a husband and father. Ernest met the love of his life, Rosette Dimalanta, in high school. They married on September 8, 2001, and built a life filled with faith, love, laughter, and purpose. Their greatest joy came in raising their three daughters: Kiara (born 2003), Kaylee (2006), and Kalyssa (2011). A proud and dedicated “Girl Dad,” Ernest was their #1 fan on the sidelines and in the stands as a Cheer Dad, Soccer Dad, and Track & Field Dad. He found joy in supporting his daughters and took pride in being present for every milestone. He spent countless hours driving to and from practices, games, meets, and tournaments—always willing to adjust his schedule to put his family first.

“For better, for worse, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish”—Ernest and Rosette lived these vows fully and faithfully. His love, loyalty, and spirit will continue to live on in their daughters and in every life he touched.

Ernest is survived by his loving wife Rosette, daughters Kiara (21), Kaylee (18), and Kalyssa (14); his mother Marcelina Rebugio; and his brother Eric Rebugio. In addition to his immediate family, Ernest leaves behind a wide circle of extended family and cherished friends—each one deeply impacted by his warmth, friendship, and love.

In accordance with his wishes, Ernest was cremated on June 16th. With faith and gratitude, our family invites all who knew and loved him to gather with us in remembrance and the celebration of his life at memorial services to be held in San Diego, June 26th or in San Jose, on June 28th.