Ernie Oliva

Born November 18, 1948, in Escondido, CA, to Sam and Evelyn Oliva. Ernie was one of seven children.

After graduating from Orange Glen High School in 1967, Ernie attended Palomar College where he played baseball from 1968-1969 until he signed with the San Diego Padres in 1970. He served in the U.S. Army from 1970-1972 and the Army National Guard for another 22 years before he retired. Ernie married Denise Ancell in 1971 and continued to play baseball at the semi-professional level until retiring to raise a family; he then began a long career in construction.

Ernie had a passion for sports, especially baseball/softball, football and soccer. He coached both women's and girls' softball for over 20 years and with his positive demeanor and ever present smile, he was loved by all.

Ernie is survived by his wife, Denise; daughters, Felicia, Shawna and Keri; siblings Shirley, Sam and Doreen; and his beloved granddaughters, Emma and Maryn.

A Memorial celebration will be held at 10am on July 15, 2017, at St. Mary's Catholic Church, 1170 South Broadway, Escondido, CA 92025.