Ernest "Ernie" Ronald Morgan

Ernest Ronald Morgan, or Ernie as everyone knew him, lived life on his own terms, marked by unwavering strength, courage, and a deep devotion to those he loved. Born in Chilliwack, BC, on August 28, 1950, his life was one full of adventure, laughter, and resilience. Even in his final days, he confronted the challenge of cancer with remarkable bravery, a testament to the strength that had always been at the core of who he was.

Ernie spent his childhood in the Lower Mainland before meeting the love of his life, Linda Tate. Together, they built a life full of joy and memories, raising two children, Dustin and Teesha, in the Great White North. Living first in Mackenzie, then Prince George. As a family, we treasured countless moments spent camping, fishing, and boating together. We’ll forever hold dear our times at Carp Lake, tubing, white-water rafting, and the memories of camping in the old motorhome. Evenings around the campfire, playing card games and sharing stories, will always be etched in our hearts. The life Ernie and Linda created for us in Prince George was grounded in love, stability, and the spirit of adventure, and for that, we are eternally grateful. While in Prince George, Ernie and Linda spent their holidays with many dear friends. Backpacking the Sky Line trails, canoeing the Bowron Lakes, kayaking the Johnstone Strait, and biking the rail trails in the Okanagan, just to name a few.

After retiring from his role as the Turn Around Manager for Prince George Pulp and Intercon Pulp, Ernie and Linda sought the beauty and relaxed lifestyle of Salmon Arm. While in Salmon Arm they embraced a new chapter filled with sunshine, pool parties, and the joy of being surrounded by their growing family, son-in-law Kevin Saltel and daughter-in-law Kerry Morgan, and their grandchildren. “Papa” was deeply loved by his grandchildren Autumn (7), Isla (6), and Teddy (3). Autumn, affectionately known as "Autumn Bear," loved sneaking sips of Papa’s root beer. Teddy cherished the quiet moments spent on Papa’s lap reading books and chatting together, while Isla adored the many times Papa gently held her hand on walks, showing her the beauty of nature.

Ernie had an endless amount of patience for his grandchildren, but that patience disappeared when it came to tools that didn’t work as he expected. There may have been a time or two when we witnessed the lawn trimmer flying in the air heading for the bush - chucking that finicky machine made him feel so much better. Thankfully, those times were rare, and Ernie was able to accomplish many projects with satisfaction and craftsmanship.

Ernie had countless ways of connecting with his family and those around him, and his many talents left us in awe every day. There was nothing he couldn’t fix, build, or create. Whether it was restoring cars, constructing houses, or crafting canoes and paddleboards from cedar, Ernie seemed to have a gift for it all. His skills also included his ability to play multiple sports. From hockey and golf, to downhill skiing, biking, and pickleball, Ernie was always ready to have some fun and a little friendly competition with his friends and family.  These remarkable skills were just one of the many things that made him so special.

Ernie's greatest gift, however, was his boundless love for his family, especially his cherished wife, Linda, with whom he shared over 50 years of marriage. Together, they weathered every storm and celebrated each moment of sunshine, hand in hand. Their love was a guiding light for all who had the privilege of witnessing it. They exemplified the true meaning of partnership, resilience, and unwavering devotion.

We will forever be grateful for the love, guidance, and wisdom our father imparted upon us. He was our rock, our source of inspiration, and our greatest teacher. His love for us, and for Mom, shaped us into who we are today.

As we say goodbye to our father, we raise a glass in his honour, celebrating the love story that defined his life.

Dad, may you now be at peace. Thank you for fighting one hell of a fight, and for showing us what true strength and love look like. We love you beyond what words can convey, and we will carry your memory in our hearts forever.

The family would like to sincerely thank Dr. Elizabeth Watson for the many after-hour phone calls, asking Ernie if there was anything more she could do for him. Also, Erica from Palliative Care and her countless suggestions to make Ernie’s life more comfortable. A sincere thank you to Dr. Glendale and Nurse Daniella for letting us move our MAID date up a day, at the very last minute. Their exemplary care and compassion towards Ernie over the past several years - as well as to the numerous friends and family who have provided unwavering love and support to Linda and Ernie - helped to make the hard days a little brighter.

A celebration of life for Ernie will be held in the spring of 2025.