Passed away unexpectedly in the early evening of October 6, 2025, at the age of 89.
Beloved father of Cindy Lukawesky-Dowdle (David), Blaine, Sherry Brewer (Clive), Duane, Claudine Lukawesky (David White), and Ernie Jr. (Grace Mazzotto). Proud Gido of Janalyn Dowdle (Jordon Sinclair), Jennifer Dowdle (Kris Italiano), Darren Brewer, Lucas White, Holly Brewer, Alyssa White, and Addison Dymond. Loving Great-Gido to Gabriella and Roman Italiano.
Ernie was the son of the late Mary Harasymek and George Lukawesky. He was predeceased by his sister Sonja and brother-in-law Bill Sweet.
Ernie was truly one of a kind, with a personality that could fill a room and a laugh that was impossible to forget. He had a lifelong passion for classic cars, talking shop with fellow enthusiasts at car club gatherings. If there was a car show, or meet-up, you could bet Ernie was there—usually with a story or two to share.
Sports were another of his great loves. A devoted fan of the Toronto Blue Jays and Raptors, Ernie could analyze every play and wasn’t shy about letting the television (or anyone within earshot) know how he would have coached it better.
Daily Tim Hortons coffees, Ernie had the remarkable ability to strike up a chat with anyone, whether he’d known them for years or had just met them in line.
Above all, Ernie’s greatest joy came from his family. He loved nothing more than gathering together, telling stories, and celebrating life’s big and small moments. His gift of gab, quick wit, and larger-than-life presence made him unforgettable. To know Ernie was to laugh with him, to learn from him, and to feel truly welcomed. He will be remembered with love, and deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Visitation will take place on Friday November 14th 2025, 5:00pm to 8:00pm at the Oshawa Funeral Home, located at 847 King Street West, Oshawa, Ontario L1J 2L4. A memorial service will take place in the Chapel at the Oshawa Funeral Home on Saturday November 15th 2025 at 1:30pm.
In lieu of flowers the family are kindly asking for donations to the Jays Care Foundation.
