Ernest Encizo

It is with heavy hearts that we announce Ernest Encizo (aka “Minnow”), the coolest dad, grandfather, brother and uncle, passed away suddenly on Saturday, Nov. 18, 2023, at Cobre Valley Hospital. Born Feb. 2, 1956, Ernest was the son of Raul and Ernestina Encizo. He graduated from Miami High School in 1974 and dedicated 45 years to Freeport-McMoRan. He was a hard worker and always ensured his family was provided for. He even helped his son David become a first-generation college graduate. He had a big heart and was always kind, funny and patient.  

Ernest loved music and was an audiophile. He collected several hundred vinyl records and compact discs. His collection includes some of the best albums ever produced in the rock, R&B, soul, funk and dance music genres. He was always buying and experimenting with the latest audio tech and speaker configurations to make sure the music sounded just right. 

Ernest loved to swim and earned the nickname “Minnow” from his brothers. He naturally took to the water and made sure all his children learned to swim and dive. You would often find him out at Roosevelt Lake or taking his kids to the local pools. 

Ernest was also a pool (billiards) shark, winning money at many local tournaments in the Globe-Miami area. He was a regular at Drift Inn and 2 Lanes and was not afraid to talk smack to his rivals. 

He is survived by his children Bernadine, David, Pearl and his “adopted” children Ruby and Wes. He is also survived by his siblings Virgie, John (Minnie) and Tom (Christine).

Ernest’s Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, Dec. 2, at 1 p.m. at Bulman Miles Funeral Services in Globe, Arizona. 

Family is being assisted by Bulman Miles Funeral Services Globe.