Ernesto "Ernie" Gandara JR was called to heaven on April 28th, 2021. Ernie was born on April 22nd, 1973 to Ernesto Garcia Gandara and Blanca Estela Gandara in Yuma, Arizona.

The Gandara's moved to Blythe where Ernie attended local schools and graduated from Palo Verde High School's class of 1992.

Ernie had a passion for playing the trumpet and was a bugler for the local VFW.  Ernie would play "Taps" for Memorial Day services.

After graduating high school, Ernie became a volunteer firefighter for the Riverside County Fire Department Station 43. Ernie eventually started a short career with California Department of Forestry and worked throughout Riverside County. Ernie had to leave the fire department due to an injury and started working as a cook at local restaurants.

His passion for cooking led Ernie to his career as a supervising cook for the California Department of Corrections.

Ernie married Christina Rodriguez but would later divorce. During his marriage, Ernie was blessed with two sons Abraham and Sebastian Gandara and two step daughters, Marina and Cassandra.

Ernie was preceded in death by his first born son, Abraham. Ernie is survived by his loving parents, Ernesto and Blanca Gandara of Blythe; brother, Emmanuel "Manny" Gandara of Blythe; His son Sebastian; step daughters, Marina and Cassandra; and Numerous Aunts, Uncles and Cousins in Yuma, Arizona and many friends.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, May 9th from 5-8:00 p.m., with Rosary beginning at 7:00 p.m. at Frye Chapel. Funeral Mass will be Monday, May 10th at 2:00 p.m. at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church.