CARNIGHAN, Ernie

Copper Basin News Hayden, Az. 16 Oct. 2011 Ernie Carnighan passed on peacefully in his home on Oct. 10, 2011, surrounded by his sister, five nieces and other close family and friends. Ernie was born on Dec. 25, 1942 to John and Nasaria Carnighan in Tucson. He grew up in Mammoth and graduated in 1961 from San Manuel High School. Ernie enlisted in the U.S. Army and served from 1962-1967, some of that time stationed in Germany. He worked for Magma Copper Company for a few years before getting hired at ASARCO Mining Company driving a pickup truck, making and picking up deliveries for most of his career. He drove thousands of miles without having a single accident, although he may have caused a few. He retired after 34 years. He loved to play the guitar and sing. Ernie was well known and liked by many in the community. He was proud of the fact that he took care of his mother, Nasaria, for 14 years after she had a debilitating stroke. He also took on the formidable task of raising five, yes five, nieces as if they were his own. Anna, Christine, Virginia, Mary and Patricia can attest to the fact that Ernie was a loving, selfless, kind and giving man who took the time to teach them to be good people. He gladly took on the lifelong role as their father, right up to the end of his life. His many friends can also tell of Ernie’s generosity and his willingness to help those in need. “Uncle Ernie” will be sorely missed by all his family and friends. He was a God-fearing man and was a fine example to many as how to live one’s life. Preceded in death by his parents, John and Nasaria Carnighan and half-brother Arthur Carnighan, Ernie is survived by his brother, Gilbert Carnighan of Fullerton, California; his sister, Dora Mendoza of Mammoth; his five nieces, Anna Esquivel, Christine (Marty) Ponce, Virginia (Tony) Garcia, Mary (Johnny) Borquez, and Patricia (Craig) Williams; also three nephews, Mark Carnighan, Robin Carnighan, Jerome Carnighan and many grand nieces and nephews. Arrangements were entrusted to the care of Vistoso Funeral Home.