Obituary – Ernest Angelo Banaga

February 23, 1938 – August 23, 2026

Ernest “Ernie” Banaga, 88, passed peacefully in his sleep in the early morning hours of August 23rd of natural causes. Ernie was born on Terminal Island, CA to Pete and Rose Banaga in 1938. Ernie was a loving brother to his siblings Margaret Gallego, Pete Banaga Jr., Fred Banaga, Rosie Villescas, Ilene Cruz, Richard Banaga, Loretta Kalasa, Carl Banaga, and Robert Banaga Sr.. He also took great pride in being Uncle Ernie to 23 nieces/nephews, 37 great niece/nephews, and several great-great nieces/nephews. A life-long San Pedro resident, Ernie was never married and did not have any children of his own but he enjoyed his large close knit family and lived his life in a beautifully simple way.

Ernie made his living working for the Ship Scalers Union #56 while proudly driving around in his Dodger blue 76’ Chevy truck with his “XErnieX” license plate. While he deeply regretted selling his truck, you would catch him walking all over San Pedro on his way to his favorite places, Christy’s Donuts and South Pacific Market on 14th and Pacific where he enjoyed talking to his fellow lotto ticket scratchers and newspaper readers so much. Another proud accomplishment of his was his streak of 8 consecutive years of conquering the bridge, an annual 5.3 mile run/walk which he started at the age of 77!

Ernie was strong-willed but had such a gentle soul. He was a selfless man that will forever be missed. While he will no longer walk this Earth, he will ALWAYS have a place in our thoughts, in our memories, and in our hearts. His life was, in the words of Ernie, a BIG SUCCESS! We love you Ernest. Rest in Peace.