July 29, 1947 – July 16, 2025
Seattle, Washington
Early Life & Character
Ernie was born on July 29, 1947, in Portland, Oregon, to Clare and Harriet Peterson. After a decade-long battle with cancer, he passed away peacefully in Seattle, Washington, on July 16, 2025, surrounded by love. Though his fight was long and difficult, Ernie’s courage, curiosity, and zest for life never waned. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Ernie was a man of exceptional intellect and integrity—curious, brave, responsible, and kind. He lived a life defined not by hardship, but by gratitude, learning, and love.
A Lifelong Love of Golf & Literature
At the age of 12, Ernie began what became a 65-year love affair with golf. He cherished not only the challenge of the game but the camaraderie, the beauty of nature, and the quiet joy of being outdoors with good friends.
At 16, while living in London, Ernie discovered Charles Dickens through The Pickwick Papers, sparking a lifelong admiration for Dickens’ works. He eventually read every one of Dickens’ novels, and in 2002, he delighted in finding communities of fellow enthusiasts—his very own “Dickens’ sundae” topped with friendship and shared passion.
Scholar, Surgeon & Teacher
During his college years in Minnesota, Ernie spent long nights in empty classrooms, dedicating countless hours to study. His deep love of learning defined him throughout his life and career.
After completing medical school and surgical training, Ernie served for a year and a half in American Samoa, caring for patients 2,200 miles southwest of Hawaii. He later joined the Boise VA Medical Center, where he worked for 30 years, serving nearly half that time as Chief of Surgery.
His colleagues described him as an exceptional surgeon—a thinker, planner, and meticulous craftsman who treated every patient with respect and care. Ernie found profound purpose in serving both the veterans of the United States and the people of Samoa.
Family & Legacy of Love
Ernie’s greatest joy was his family. He made each of them feel special, valued, and important. His wife Cindy, and sons Brian and Eric, remember him as a man who listened deeply and loved fully—a rare and beautiful gift.
Though the last decade of his life was marked by illness, Ernie continued to find joy in the simple things: a good book, a challenging puzzle, a golf swing (good or bad), and the warmth of a loving touch. Cindy, Brian, and Eric are grateful for every moment shared on his journey—a journey of courage, humor, and enduring love.
Family & Survivors
Ernie is survived by his devoted wife, Cindy Peterson; his sons, Brian Estes-Peterson and Eric Ambrose; his sisters Mae Orendorff (Gary), Sue Post (Barry), and Mary Sauerbrey (Mark); and his brothers-in-law Harn Cordua (Kathy) and Chris Cordua (Peg).
He is also remembered with love by 12 nieces and nephews and 13 extended nieces and nephews, all of whom were deeply cherished.
Words of Wisdom from Ernie
Be curious.
Don’t wait to love and live.
Remember—everyone has a story worth hearing.
Give to the charity of your choice.
And if you’re eating a hot dog, some ice cream, some chocolate, or a maple bar, say—“This one’s for you, Ernie.”
Celebration of Life
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at 10:00 a.m.
King of Glory Lutheran Church
3430 N. Maple Grove Road (Maple Grove and Ustick)
Boise, Idaho 83704
