Ernie Zanetti passed away at home on the afternoon of September 29, 2013 in the presence of family members. He was born on March 30,1928 in Stockton, CA. Ernie grew up and spent his youth and adult life in Manteca. He attended Castle School and then graduated from Manteca High School in 1947.  Ernie and Yvonne Beam married the next year on June 27, 1948. They celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary this past June. Ernie worked in high school for Gaia Delucchi and then later with the irrigation district.  Ernie’s first “official” job was working at Manteca Garage, and later with Ralph Dolcater’s Machine Shop. Following these two positions, Ernie worked at Franzia Brothers Winery as transportation shop superintendent, where he retired.

Mr. Zanetti is survived by his spouse Yvonne (Beam) Zanetti married 65 years. He has two children, Kristin Founts of Manteca and Jon Zanetti of Manteca.
He was blessed with four grandchildren, Larissa Founts, Rashonne Founts, Joshua Zanetti, and Jeremy Zanetti. As well as, one brother Robert (Bob) Zanetti.

Ernie loved doing so many things.  Anyone who knew Ernie in his early days, could not separate him from his motorcycles! He enjoyed working at his ranch where he first farmed grapes and later walnuts. Kristin, his daughter, remembers the many years of camping, which was not only his favorite, but also hers. In the later years, he totally rebuilt a World War II Jeep with his son, Jon.  Yvonne remembers the many years of traveling the coast of California and the 5th Wheel Trip to Alaska. Hunting, fishing, and boating were his great loves! Each week the family would get together for dinner…the children, grandchildren, and everyone else who could come, he loved these evenings. It was always funny that Ernie never wanted any dogs, but there were always dogs and cats hanging around the house, and him. He loved animals and they loved him. Of course, anyone who knew Ernie, also knew that he loved stopping at Johnnie’s for the morning breakfasts with old-time friends, and the Wesley Hotel for that great cheeseburger! Above all else, Ernie loved his wife Yvonne, his daughter Kristin, and his son, Jon. He will be missed by all.

P.L. Fry & Son is honored to be serving the Zanetti family. A visitation will be held on Thursday, October 3, 1p.m. to 5p.m., at P.L. Fry, 290 N. Union Rd., Manteca. A memorial service will be held on Friday, October 4, at 1p.m.,  also held at P.L. Fry Chapel. He will be laid to rest at a private family burial. An online guest book is available for condolences at www.plfryandson.com (search obituaries).

Manteca (Calif.) Bulletin
Wednesday, October 2, 2013