Ernestine Zierenberg passed away peacefully on Nov. 10 in Merced. She was 78 years old. She was born on Aug. 17, 1932, in Germany where she faced the adversities of World War II as a young teenager. She met her husband, Al, while he was stationed there. They married in Merced on Aug. 20, 1955. Ernestine was a professional seamstress for many years while she stayed at home raising her two daughters.

She donated time to help others by driving cancer patients for treatments and by visiting nursing homes with one of her pet dogs. She enjoyed working the election precinct and was passionate about politics. Ernestine was an active fundraiser over the years for many organizations including: Animal Hotline (set up by her and Al), the SPCA, Habitat for Humanity, and others. She was known far and wide for her famous yard sales where she met so many wonderful people. Her hobbies included sewing, animal adoptions, poker and cooking. 
 Ernestine is survived by her husband of 55 years, Alfred; her two daughters, Lieselotte Woodard of Bittburg, Germany, and Susan Zierenberg of Sacramento; two grandsons, Kevin Woodard and Zachary Hammond; two great granddaughters, Ayla and Emma Woodard; and her cats. 
 She requested no funeral. A celebration of her life will be held on Saturday, Dec. 4 in Merced. Specific details will be provided closer to the date.

 In lieu of flowers, please send donations to either Last Hope Cat Kingdom (209-357-5425) or Habitat for Humanity. Please leave memories and condolences at www.allenmortuary.com.