Ernest J. Esposito

ESPOSITO – Ernest J. “Ernie," 89, Stonycreek Township, peacefully went to be with the Lord on March 8, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. Born on January 28, 1934, in Johnstown, son of Joseph and Rose (Ventresca) Esposito. Preceded in death by his wife of close to 65 years, Madeline (DeRubis); parents; brothers, Anthony, Charles, Albert, Joseph Jr; and sisters, Helen Massimo, Mary Ferbiak, Josephine Barros, Gloria Sheridan, and Jean Esposito. He is survived by daughters, Susan M. (Dean) Gindlesperger, Richland Township and Sharon M. (David Mayer) Esposito-Mayer, Clarksville, MD; grandchildren, Ryan Gindlesperger (Christie Cardellino), Matthew Gindlesperger and Madison Mayer: great-grandchildren, Riley, Madilyn and Ellie Gindlesperger who loved their “Pappy Ernie”; brother-in-law James DeRubis (Leny); sister-in-law, Vera DeRubis (widow of Geno) and Patricia Esposito (widow of Joseph Jr.); and numerous nieces and nephews. Ernie began his career as a steelworker with Bethlehem Steel in Johnstown.  He served as President of Franklin local union 2635 and was later hired as a union representative with the United Steelworkers of America.  Ernie retired at the age of 81 as Subregional Director of the United Steelworkers District 10.   He served as Chairman of the United Steelworkers Compensation Committee for decades and the District 10 Legislative Committee. Ernie was an exceptionally hard working and selfless individual that continually gave of himself to help improve the lives of others.  Ernie fought tirelessly for worker’s rights and to improve worker safety.  He served as President of the Johnstown-Somerset Central Labor Council for over 20 years where he supported youth in the area by providing college scholarships, now known as the Ernie Esposito scholarship. Ernie was a five-time delegate to the Democratic National Convention.  He was very active in the community serving on the board for the United Way and the Cambria County Transit Authority.  He was a member of St. Benedict Catholic Church in Geistown where he volunteered as an usher for many years. More than anything in the world, Ernie enjoyed spending time with his family.  To Ernie, family always came first.  Ernie was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend to so many.  He will be deeply missed.  The family would like to extend its sincere gratitude to the staff at Richland Woods for their exceptional care. The family will receive friends from 3 to 7 p.m. Sunday, March 12, at Harris Funeral Home, 500 Cherry Lane, Richland where vigil service will be held. Funeral Mass will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, March 13 at St. Benedict Catholic Church, Fr. David S. Peles, Pastor. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America at www.act.alz.org in memory of Ernest J. Esposito. Online condolences may be posted at www.wharrisfuneralhome.com.