We Remember

MATSUBA, Ernest Yoshihiro

October 11, 1941 — November 26, 2025

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Ernest “Ernie” Matsuba on November 26, 2025.

Ernie was born in Steveston, B.C., on October 11, 1941, to Kanichi and Yukiye Matsuba. He grew up in a busy, loving family alongside his brothers George, Walter, and Michael, and his sisters Kay, Riyeko, Bernice, and Kathy, with cherished remembrance of his sister Cheryl, who passed in infancy. He was also a proud uncle to many nieces and nephews.

Ernie spent his adult life working with B.C. Tel, where he built not only a career but lasting friendships. Outside of work, he was rarely still. An avid sportsman, Ernie was a lifelong hockey player — including Junior A with the Pats and K of C — as well as a dedicated golfer and high-level curler. He also enjoyed football with the Edmonton Wildcats and loved spending time camping, canoeing, and fishing. When not on the ice, the green, or the trail, he found peace in tending to his garden.

Ernie is survived by his former wife, Barb. He is also lovingly remembered by his late partner, Sandra Bedford, who predeceased him earlier in 2025.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the compassionate staff at Chartwell/Chatsworth and the hospice team for their exceptional care and kindness during Ernie’s final days.

Ernie will be remembered for his never-ending smile, gentle nature, and the warmth he brought wherever he went. His kindness, humour, and steady presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the BC Cancer Foundation, are gratefully appreciated.

If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.

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BC Cancer Foundation Link: www.bccancerfoundation.com

 


 


Condolences

  • Darlene Jethon says:
    January 22, 2026 at 10:00 am

    It was very hard to say goodbye to someone like Ernie. He was such a kind, gentle caring man. We had so much fun playing cards with him. He definitely was one of a kind card player. He did like to win. Things won’t be the same around here without him and of course his partner Sandy — we lost both of them in one year. Ernie was a good volunteer he used to be there helping with everything. The last eight years that I have known Ernie, he was very happy. He had someone who loved him very much and he had a lot of good friends. We will always remember Ernie as such a kind man. We sure miss him.

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