Ernest R. Abril

January 10th, 1932 - January 30th, 2026

Ernest R. Abril, 94, devoted father, grandfather, and uncle, entered eternal rest late Jan. 29, 2026.  He passed away peacefully at the home of his daughter with family by his side.  He was a lifelong resident of Colton. 

Ernest was preceded in death by his twin brother, Manuel R. Abril, brother Frank R. Abril, brother Arnold R. Abril, parents Frank and Carmen Abril, infant daughter Elizabeth Carmen Abril and grandson Damian Hall.  He is survived by his daughter, Denise Abril Vasquez (husband Henry), grandchildren, Armando Vasquez Jr, Nicholas R. Vasquez, Nathaniel H. Vasquez and Noah E. Vasquez. Son Ernesto O. Abril, grandchildren Ernest Abril, Manuel Abril, Karissa Kulp (husband Lee), and 2 great grandchildren. He had 5 stepchildren, many step grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. 

Ernest was a graduate from Colton High School class of 1951.  He excelled in baseball along with his twin brother Manuel. After graduation they signed and played professional baseball with the Pittsburgh Pirates Organization for a year before being drafted into the Army during the Korean War.  Upon returning from his tour of duty, he went on to play baseball, again with his twin brother for the Kansas Oklahoma Missouri league and the Texas league in Mexico. He was also a member of the Colton Mercuries. After his baseball career ended, he returned home to Colton.  He worked for Smith Packinghouse in Colton and later worked for the City of Colton, Sanitation Dept.  He married Mary Louise Ornelas and had 3 children. He was dedicated to his family and retired after 30 years of working for the City of Colton. 

Services will be held at Hermosa Gardens Chapel in Colton Tuesday February 24th, 2026 from 10am-12 pm burial to follow at 12:30pm. Celebration of Life Reception 2pm-4pm at Colton VFW post 6476 1789 N. 8TH St. Colton CA 92324