Ernest Colon, Sr., 65, of Guttenberg, NJ lost his battle with Covid-19 on March 22, 2021 at University Hospital Newark. Born in Brooklyn, NY on December 15, 1955 to Carmen (née Cruzado) Colon and Henry Colon, Ernest was known in his earlier years as being one of the best chess players in his neighborhood and in the banking community, where he won many chess awards and tournaments. Known as the life of the party and sometimes the tallest man in a room, Ernest’s energy and presence were felt when he was among family and friends. Often known to be the one to outlast others on the dance floor, Ernest enjoyed spending time with his loved ones at family parties and weddings. He enjoyed his many trips to Miami and Oklahoma to visit his brothers, sister, and their families. As a tour bus driver, he was known to take tourists from around the world on long trips to places like Niagara Falls and Washington D.C. Tourists found Ernest to be personable and friendly, a real asset to the travel leisure industry, providing an excellent experience to his customers.
Ernest is predeceased by his parents Carmen (née Cruzado) Colon and his father, Henry Colon. He is survived by his beloved wife, Selma (née Dookie) Colon, his children Ernest Arsenio (Angela) Colon, Enrique/Quique (Jennifer) Colon, Clarissa Marie (Will) Colon, and Christina Marie Colon. He will be greatly missed by his grandchildren Tabitha Elizabeth Colon, Aidan Joshua Colon, Justin Michael Colon, Erica Jane Colon, Sarah Suhail and Silas Suhail. He is also survived by his brother, Henry Colon, his sister, Yvonne Santiago, his brother, Richard Colon, his brother, Moses Colon, their spouses and children, including many nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews and cousins who he enjoyed visiting and spending time with. He also leaves behind his dear friends Jack, Chino and Eddie (to name a few) with whom he enjoyed sharing stories and good times. Ernest always made sure to let his friends and family know how much he loved them. His bright smile and bear hugs will be sorely missed.
Join us for a celebration of his life and memorial service for Ernest on Thursday, April 1, 2021 at Thomas Montera Funeral Home, 1848 Westchester Ave., Bronx, NY from 6pm-7:30pm. Calling hours will be from 3-6pm and 7:30-8:00 pm on the same date and location. Zoom service starting 5:30: ID: 882 7232 3499, password ERNEST.