Ernie Allen Mendes entered into heavenly rest on Sunday, December 18, 2022 in Modesto, CA. He was 73 years old. 

Ernie was born to Manuel and Madaline Mendes on June 14, 1949 in Turlock, CA. He was raised on his family’s dairy farm in Crows Landing, CA. Ernie dropped out of high school to help run the dairy. Ernie proudly served his country as part of the 57th Transportation company as a heavy gun truck driver during the Vietnam War. He was able to obtain his GED after he came back from the war. He worked as a forklift driver for 32 years for Gallo Glass Company where he met the love of his life Debbie. He and Debbie

Mendes were married on April 30, 1982 in Modesto, CA. Ernie loved being outdoors, fishing, hunting, and camping. His favorite place was Lake Don Pedro. He also loved visiting with his family and friends. Ernie was a member of VFW, ECV, Turlock Sportsman, Escalon Sportsman, Nam Nomads, Modesto Goodtimers RV Club, and Elks. In 2015, he found out that the Nam Nomads, his Vietnam brothers, were meeting every year. They met at different parts of the country for a big reunion. This was the best therapy for Ernie, as he always looked forward to his Vietnam brother’s reunion. Ernie will be greatly missed by his loving family and will always be remembered in their hearts.

Ernie was preceded in death by parents, Manuel and Madaline; and his brother, Gene.

He is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Debbie; his daughters, Kimberly, Melanie, and Tamra; 8 grandsons, 1 granddaughter, 2 great-grandsons, 1 great-granddaughter to be born in February; and his devoted service dog, Miss Trixie Dixie.

A Celebration of Life is being held on Saturday, January 7, 2023 from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.at The Grand Oak, 1450 N. Soderquist Rd., Turlock, CA 95380.