ERNIE BONIN

ERNIE BONIN 1936 ~ 2024
After a life led full of love for his family, it is with much sadness, we share that Ernie is gone. He passed away in Medicine Hat on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, at the age of 88 years. He raised us girls, Elan and Lorie, his two daughters as a single father. Dad was the best father, grandfather and great-grandfather to Rylee, Matthew, Conor, Sienna and Xavier.
Our Dad was born, raised and lived in Medicine Hat his whole life. He started at Motor Vehicles in 1961 and 30 years later he retired as Manager. Throughout the years, Dad made lasting friendships. They bowled together, won many trophies and laughed a lot!!
Our dad devoted his life to us girls and his grandchildren… he tied skates, drove looking for Pokémon cards, Beanie Babies and made home cooked lunches for school days. He would do anything for his grandchildren.
Dad was fortunate to have travelled over the years. A road trip to the USA with Elan, Lyle & Rylee to Disneyland, Hawaii, Omaha, Pella and his most treasured trips to Italy to meet his father’s family.
Dad was very proud of his house and yard. He would spend hours outside getting it to look perfect!
The highlight in 2023 was the birth of his first great-granddaughter, Sienna; and in 2024, the birth of his great-grandson, Xavier. Oh how he loved the video calls and pictures!
Dad’s last few years were taken over by the life robbing disease of Dementia. He never forgot who we were and Dad knew us until the end. As much as we are heartbroken, we are relieved Dad’s awful suffering has ended. Hug your loved ones while you can.
Dad is survived by his daughters and families: Elan (Lyle) Pigula, Lorie Bonin-Sandford (Robert McNaught); Rylee Pigula (Brent Trudeau), Matthew and Gina Sandford, Conor Sandford, Danielle, Sienna, Xavier and Madison.
A huge heartfelt thank you to Bruce and Carl for faithfully visiting dad at least three times a week; Linda, Jacquie and Patty, we thank you for your years of friendship and visits to Dad.
In Ernie’s honour, a private family interment will be held at a later date. (Condolences may be expressed by visiting www.cooksouthland.com) Honoured to serve the family is
Cook Southland Funeral
Chapel Crematorium &
Reception Facility
901 – 13th Street S.W.
Medicine Hat, Alberta T1A 4V4
Phone 403-527-6455
www.cooksouthland.com
“Locally owned & directed”