Ernest Lizotte. Submitted photo.
Ernest C. Lizotte
After a brief illness, our family regrets to announce the loss of our Pa, Ernest C. Lizotte, 92, of Fairhaven.
Born in New Bedford, to Lauretta Cruz (Vient) and Ernest Lizotte, Ernest was a proud resident of Fairhaven for more than 60 years.
At the age of 17, he enlisted in the United States Air Force. Upon graduation from communication technical school, he was assigned overseas where he honorably served his country during the Korean War.
After his military enlistment, he moved home to marry Mary A. Lizotte (Candage, predeceased). They had a long and happy marriage with a kindness and respect for each other that prospered throughout their lives which included raising their son, Jeffrey F. Lizotte of Florida.
Ernest worked meticulously for 35+ years as a custodian for the town of Fairhaven where he proudly worked to restore, maintain, and clean the town’s middle school then town hall until his retirement in 2018.
He was actively involved in his community. To this day, his name is still very familiar to many Fairhaven residents who have fond memories of he and his wife as avid volunteers with The Fairhaven Drum and Bugle Corps.
A true patriot, he was an active and devoted member of the American Legion for more than 60 years. Not only did he travel the state serving in a variety of roles (Past Post Cmdr., Past Bristol County Cmdr., Past Dept. Aide to the Cmdr., and Dept. Vice Cmdr.), but he also traveled the country committing to the Legion’s mission of taking care of those who served.
Ernie spent his retirement years deeply gratified with being surrounded by his grandchildren, Jeff E. Lizotte of Savannah, MO and Donna L. Gibson and spouse, Derek Gibson of Rochester, MA. He truly enjoyed every moment he spent with his family: From a bud or a white zin on the cottage porch, or a Sunday drive around town with his grandson Jeff, to attending breakfast, running errands, and visiting his granddaughter’s house in Rochester, Ernie felt truly blessed being around loved ones.
Watching his great grandchildren Derek, Nathan, and Andrew Gibson of MA and Cheyenne Stocking and Ashlie Lizotte of MO grow was the highlight of his life. He was so proud of them.
The coldest hockey rink, the rainiest Friday night of high school football, and the longest baseball game would not stop him from an event where his great grandsons played, nor would he miss an opportunity to visit with his great granddaughter. He relished Saturday breakfasts with Nathan, and showed patience for teaching everything he could to all of his great grandchildren.
He always enjoyed playing tour guide and restauranteur to his beloved Maryland family, specifically finding a good bowl of New England Clam Chowder for Denise.
Whether you called him Pa, Ernie, Uncle, or Mr. Lizotte, or whether you knew him recently or years ago, he always left a lasting impression on everyone he met. He was reliable, giving, helpful, and kind. All that knew him were better for it. He will be sorely missed.
He was a member of the First Congregational Church of Fairhaven.
His visitation will be at 10am on Monday, November 20, 2023 with a funeral service following at 11am at Fairhaven Funeral Home, 117 Main Street, Fairhaven, MA 02719. Burial will be immediately after at Riverside Cemetery, 274 Main Street, Fairhaven, MA. For memorial register or facility directions please visit, www.hathawayfunerals.com.
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