Ernest "Ernie" Tavela Jr, 83, of Brookline, NH, passed away on March 19, 2026. He was born in Hancock, Michigan, the oldest son of Elsie and Ernest Tavela Sr. He is predeceased by his brothers Robert Tavela and Carl Tavela, and his son-in-law Steven Ardizzone. 

Ernie was a beloved husband, father and grandfather. He is survived by his wife Sandra (Cary) Tavela; daughters Dawn Tavela (Steve) of Haverhill, MA, and Debbie (Tavela) Ardizzone of Altoona, PA; his three grandsons Zachary, Benjamin, and Bryant; and two great-grandsons Olliver and Richard.

Ernie was a Navy veteran, serving from August 10, 1962, to August 9, 1966. He married Sandy on June 25, 1966. He worked and trained as a plumber at Ferd Corporation in Nashua, NH, before starting his own plumbing business, Tavela Mechanical, until he retired in 2004. 

Ernie loved spending time with his family, working in the yard, and on his many ongoing home projects. He enjoyed cheering on the Boston Red Sox and New England Patriots, and all time spent at his church, Christ the King Lutheran Church in Nashua, NH. 

Assisting the family with arrangements is the Cremation Society of NH, Nashua. Per his family, a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.