Ernest R Casares' Obituary
Ernest Richard Casares, 76, of Tampa, Florida, passed away at his home, the evening of January 13, 2024. Ernie was born in Tampa at Centro Asturiano Hospital on March 9, 1947. He was the youngest of three children to Faustino and Violet Casares (Priede). Ernie was baptized at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church and received his first holy communion at Christ the King Catholic Church.
Ernie graduated from H.B. Plant High School in 1965 where he was the football team’s 1964 Western Conference champion fullback. That season, he was awarded All City, All Conference, and received honorable mention for All-State. Ernie rushed 820 yards for an average of 4.9 yards per carry in his senior year. During the 1964 Thanksgiving Day Game which hosted more than 13,000 spectators, Ernie scored the winning touchdown and kicked the extra point, leading the Panthers to a win over the Hillsborough Terriers 7-6.
Ernie played his first year of college football at Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College before the University of Tampa offered him a football scholarship and welcomed Ernie back home to play for the Spartans. In his last year of football, Ernie left UT to play for North Texas State along with “Mean Joe Green.” That year, he received a letter of interest from the San Diego Chargers just before his football career ended after reinjuring his knee. That injury, however, didn’t keep Ernie away from his lifelong hobby of exercising. You could always find Ernie lifting weights at Harry Smith’s Health Club or getting in a run at the Al Lopez Park before refueling on a cup of café-con-leche.
Ernie’s working career was in the flooring industry as an architectural and manufacturer’s representative which took him all over the southeastern United States, including Nashville, Tennessee, his home office, and Italy. With his gentlemanly demeanor and his always gracious personality, he made many friends with his clients and customers that continued throughout his career.
Ernie was a fan of all sports, especially college football where many family vacations were spent at the University of Notre Dame. Another passion of his was watching auto racing with special friends and family. Ernie’s faith was important, and he strengthened it by spending an annual weekend retreat at the Manresa House in Convent, Louisiana. The beach was Ernie’s “happy place,” and many great memories were made there. Ernie was also an exceptional photographer and enjoyed capturing countless moments that are now treasured memories. Ernie also loved all types of music, including blues, Cajun, zydeco, and jazz. A jazz music concert is what began the love story with his wife of 35 years, Yvonne.
Ernie leaves behind his soulmate and loving wife, Yvonne Casares (Shives). He is survived by his four children, Rico (Lisa), Christopher, Nicholas, and Mary-Elizabeth Fuentes (D.J.) He is also survived by his three loving granddaughters, Gabriella Cerise (Tyler Hernandez), Mila Rose Fuentes, and Ivy Sophia Fuentes. Ernie also leaves behind his older sister, Violet Diaz, and older brother, Joseph. In addition, he leaves behind many other close family members whom he so loved.
The wake service will be held on Friday, February 9, at 5pm, at the Boza & Roel Funeral Home, 4730 N. Armenia Avenue, Tampa. The funeral mass will be held on Saturday, February 10, at 11am at Christ the King Catholic Church, 821 S. Dale Mabry, Tampa, followed with a repast gathering in the McLoughlin Center.
If you would like to donate in memory of Ernie, please consider a memorial gift to:
Online Link: https://www.manresala.org/retreats/donations
Manresa Retreat House
Attn: Shellie Hayes
P.O. Box 89
Convent, LA 70723
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