Ernest Moreno
Ernest “Neto” Moreno, age 90, of Carpinteria, California, passed away peacefully at his home on December 3, 2025, following a long illness, surrounded by his loving family.
Ernest was born on February 2, 1935, in Santa Barbara, California, the third of six children born to Martin and Julia Moreno. He grew up in Carpinteria and attended local schools, forming lifelong ties to the community he would proudly call home for the rest of his life.
On June 30, 1956, Ernest married Mary Perez, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in Santa Barbara. Together they built a home rooted in faith, hard work, and devotion, raising three sons and creating a legacy of family that continues to grow.
Ernest dedicated thirty-seven years of service to Birnam Wood Golf Club, where he was known for his strong work ethic, pride in his craft, and countless miles driven on his beloved golf cart while caring for the course he took such pride in maintaining.
He found joy and peace on the ocean, where he loved to fish and create special memories. He was a proud and loving uncle to his many nieces and nephews. Ernest was a member of the Kiwanis Club and was especially known for the barbecues he thoughtfully prepared for weekly meetings and special events.
At home, Ernest took great pride in curing olives, tending his garden, caring for his fruit trees, and keeping his front lawn immaculate. In true “Neto” fashion, he was also known for jokingly yelling at the neighbor kids who dared step on his lawn. The kids, now adults, have been back asking him if he remembered them — a playful reminder of his humor and the pride he took in his home, always delivered with a smile and a twinkle in his eye.
Ernest was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings Isabel, Hermalinda, David, and Thomas; and his daughters-in-law, Norma and Yolanda.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Mary; his sons, David Ernest (Michelle), Rudolph (Dolores), Steven, and Norman; his cherished grandchildren, Manuel (Michele), Anjelica, Lupio, Carlos, Fernando, Lauryn, and Logan; and his treasured great-granddaughter, Mackenzie Eloise. He also leaves behind his sister, Hortencia, along with many nieces and nephews, godchildren, and extended family who will forever carry his memory in their hearts.
During the last year and a half of his life, Ernest faced several physical challenges with quiet strength and grace. His sons, Rudolph, David, and Steven, were a constant source of strength, offering unwavering support, loving care, and helping with remarkable dedication and a positive, selfless attitude. His grandsons, Fernando, Carlos, and Logan, showed exceptional devotion and lovingly cared for their grandpa, ensuring he was never alone. The family is deeply grateful to Cousin Tessa, whose weekly visits brought laughter, comfort, and joy to Ernest’s days.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the VNA and Hospice for their compassion and support, as well as to Blanca and Megan for the devoted care they provided during the past year and a half. Special appreciation is also given to the local Fire Department’s Lift Assist program for their many acts of kindness and assistance.
Ernest “Neto” Moreno will be remembered as a devoted husband, nurturing father, grandfather, great grandfather, loyal friend, and hardworking man whose quiet strength, generosity, and sense of humor left an enduring mark on all who knew him.
A Memorial Mass will be held on January 9 at 11:00 a.m. at Saint Joseph’s Church, located at 1532 Linden Avenue, Carpinteria.
