Ernest Roland LaPorte, known to family and friends as Ernie, passed away on August 7, 2026, in Yorktown Heights, New York, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on January 29, 1952, in the Bronx, New York, he lived a life that was generous, loving, and kind, with just enough wit to keep everyone around him smiling.
Ernie was the beloved husband of Vicky and the proud father of Vincent and his wife Jen, Chris and his wife Marisa, and Michelle and her husband Brian. He was also a devoted grandfather to Miabella, Marcello, Daniel, Shea, Theo, and Jamie, each of whom brought him endless joy and, no doubt, a few moments of well-earned chaos. Ernie was a loyal and much-loved brother to Chrissy, Lori, and Sammy, with whom he shared a lifetime of cherished memories, endless laughter, and fun. He loved his family deeply and made sure everyone knew that being together was not just important, it was the whole point. If there was a gathering, Ernie wanted to be there. If there was laughter, he wanted to be the reason for it. If there was a grandchild nearby, he was probably already smiling before they even said hello.
Ernie studied accounting at Mercy College and went on to build a respected career as a Certified Public Accountant. As a retired CPA, he brought the same steady intelligence and attention to detail to his work that he brought to everything else in life. He had the rare gift of making responsibility look easy, which is a talent most people only pretend to have until tax season arrives. He was dependable, thoughtful, and always ready with practical advice, whether someone asked for it or not. Fortunately, in Ernie’s case, even unsolicited advice usually came with good intentions and a grin.
A man of Catholic faith, Ernie carried himself with quiet strength and a sincere sense of values. He believed in doing right by people, treating others with respect, and showing up when it mattered. He did not need to make a big speech about character because his life spoke clearly enough on its own. He was the kind of man who could be counted on, the kind who made others feel safe, and the kind whose presence made a room feel more grounded and more complete.
Ernie also knew how to enjoy life. He loved playing the guitar with his band, and there was something especially fitting about a man who could balance numbers all day and then pick up a guitar and make music at night. He enjoyed fishing, biking, going to the shooting range, and watching the Yankees, which meant he appreciated both patience and occasional disappointment, sometimes in the same afternoon. He found joy in simple pleasures, good company, and time well spent. Most of all, he loved being with his family and playing with his grandchildren, which he did with the enthusiasm of a man who fully understood that grandkids are basically the best kind of audience.
Those who knew Ernie will remember his warmth, his humor, and his unmistakable ability to make people feel welcome. He was generous with his time, loving in his relationships, and kind in a way that never felt forced or performative. He had a good heart, a sharp mind, and a personality that could brighten even an ordinary day. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and countless memories that will continue to bring comfort to those who knew him best.
Ernie’s life was a fine example of how to work hard, love deeply, and still have enough room left over for music, baseball, and a well-timed joke. He will be missed beyond measure by Vicky, Vincent, Chris, Michelle, Chrissy, Lori and Sammy and his cherished grandchildren, as well as by the rest of his family and all who were fortunate enough to know him. Though he has left this world, the love he gave so freely will remain, and the stories about him will be told with affection, gratitude, and probably a little laughter, which is exactly how Ernie would have wanted it.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital in Ernie’s honor.
