ERNEST O. KARTINEN JR.

December 26, 1940 – November 12, 2021

Ernest O. Kartinen Jr. was born December 26, 1940 in Bakersfield, California and raised in Long Beach, California. Ernie passed away peacefully November 12, 2021, in his sleep after a long diagnosis of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Disease.

He was preceded in death by his parents; Ernest and Sarah Jane Kartinen; children Eric Kartinen and Amber Halbrook; grandchildren Steven Grider, Chelsea Flom, and Staci Holcomb.

Ernie was the eldest of 5 children, a child that excelled academically above average. After he completed high school, Ernie joined the U.S. Marine Reserve while attending Cal State Long Beach. He received his Bachelors and Masters Degree in Civil Engineering. He worked for Standard Oil before relocating to Bakersfield to join Boyle Engineering which became AECOM.

Ernie's love and dedication for his family was immeasurable. His diligent work ethic built a strong foundation for the future. Ernie was adoringly known as “Popo”. His greatest accomplishment was taking pride in providing and caring for his family. His intelligence, humor, forthrightness, dependability, devotedness, ability to help anyone in need, and plethora of stories will be sorely missed.

Ernie is survived by beloved his wife of 41 years LaFreeda; 16 year old greatgrandson whom he raised Hayden Francis; 3 children, 17 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren and 4 siblings.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, December 7th from 4pm-8pm at Hillcrest Memorial Park. Graveside services will be held Wednesday, December 8th at 10am at Hillcrest Memorial Park.

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