Ernie Joseph Zastre

ERNIE JOSEPH ZASTRE

November 6, 1951 – August 21, 2025

It is with deep love and sadness we announce the passing of Ernie Joseph Zastre at age 73 on August 21st, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Ernie was born November 6, 1951 in Ste. Rose du Lac Manitoba. Son of Isreal and Doralice Zastre. He grew up in Cayer, Manitoba but lived in Winnipeg until his passing.

Ernie is survived by spouse Beverly Cronin; his two daughters, Tammy Zastre (husband Jeff Blakeston); Candice Houston (husband Karl Houston); and son Jay Zastre (partner Jasmine Steuart-Reilly). Grandchildren, Toressa, Max, Layla, Zack, Colby, Johnny, Joycee, Jordin and Jersey. As well as Beverly’s daughters, Theresa and Tina; and Theresa’s children, Ben and Edie.

Leaving us before Ernie and waiting to greet him are his parents, Isreal and Doralice; and siblings, Lorraine Sigurdson, Eva Thibert, Andy Zastre, Elsie Bray, Russel Zastre, and Doris Wilkinson.

Ernie had a love of the outdoors, when Friday arrived, he could be seen loading his vehicle heading home to get lost in the bush. Depending on the season, Ernie’s weekends would be filled with hunting, fishing, quadding, snowmobiling and horseback riding with beer in hand.

Ernie was originally a Filter Queen Vacuum salesman but his career until he retired was in construction. He had impeccable work ethic and was always the hardest worker on site. He could fix almost anything and would often offer to take home a failed piece of equipment and MacGyver a solution in his workshop. You could also identify any tools belonging to Ernie by the healthy application of gold spray paint to ensure there was no confusion on site.

He was always a big presence in a room, funny and loud (est). You always knew Ernie was around, because everyone was laughing and kids were jumping on him. Everyone loved Ernie and enjoyed his company, he was a character full of stories, making people laugh and everyone’s favourite uncle. The loss of Ernie’s presence will be felt by all.

The family wish to thank Riverview Health Centre, 3rd Floor, East Wing Palliative Care for their extraordinary care and compassion during Ernie’s final days. The level of care and kindness made this difficult time endurable.

A Celebration of Ernie's life was held on Saturday, August 30, 2025 at 1:00 pm in the Ste. Rose Community Centre.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to Cancer Care Manitoba or Riverview Health Centre in Ernie’s memory.