ERNIE FAZIO
East Bay (CA) Times
December 10, 2017

(c) Houston Astros

Ernest Joseph Fazio, also known as "The Faz" passed away at the age of 75. Ernie battled dementia and Parkinson's for several years and his loving family fought with him until the end. He is survived by his wife Kathleen of 34 years, daughter Amy (husband Nick Vella), stepsons Todd and Stephen Malone (wife Samara), and grandchildren Nicco and Alivia Vella and Aiden Malone.

Ernie was born and raised in San Leandro, CA, the son of Angelina and Ernie Fazio. He was known for his many athletic accomplishments and was inducted into the Saint Elizabeth High School Hall of Fame in 2014. After high school, Ernie received a scholarship to play baseball for Santa Clara University where he as All-American, All District, All Tournament and All CIBA. In 1962, immediately following the championship game of the NCAA World Series, Ernie was the first player to sign for Houston's Major League Baseball team, the Colt .45's.

Ernie had a larger than life personality and dearly loved his family, friends, and community. He took much pride in raising his daughter and stepsons, coaching youth athletic teams and simply lived life to the fullest. There was never a dull moment when you were with The Faz.

A funeral service in memory of Ernie will be held on Friday, Dec. 15th at Saint Isidore Church in Danville at 10:30 am. A celebration of Ernie's life will follow at Forli Ristorante in Alamo.

In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to your favorite charity.