Ernest Ray Foster

Ernest Ray Foster, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on July 29, 2026, in his hometown of Vancouver, Washington, at the age of 82. Born on September 29, 1943, in Vancouver, Ernest—known affectionately as Ernie—lived a life of devotion to his family, steadfast commitment to his work, and resilience in the face of adversity.

Ernie graduated from high school in 1962, a milestone that marked the beginning of a journey defined by hard work and perseverance. Shortly after graduation, he began his career with the Corps of Engineers. It was during these years that he married, and with the help of his father, built a home for his growing family. He became a father, cherishing this new chapter, and then began working at PWTC, a timber treatment facility. The arrival of his second child enriched his life even further.

Reliable and dedicated, Ernie remained at PWTC until its closure, after which he found employment with C-Tran. He worked there with diligence and care, forging lasting friendships and earning the respect of colleagues, until his well-deserved retirement.

Ernie’s life was not without its challenges. As he navigated the trials of becoming a single father, he was fortunate to meet and later marry Sue, blending their families with patience, warmth, and determination. Together they faced all that life brought, including the nearly fatal van-to-motorcycle accident on the I-5 bridge on Memorial Day 1982—a harrowing experience that marked the beginning of over forty years filled with medical trials, surgeries, recoveries, and countless do overs.

Despite these hardships, Ernie continued to find reasons for gratitude and joy. One particularly treasured memory was his 2009 cruise through Alaska’s inside passage. That journey brought Ernie happiness, as he savored every moment, every meal, and every side trip, creating cherished memories with loved ones.

Just before his retirement from C-Tran, Ernie began to display early signs of Parkinson’s Disease. He faced the challenges of the disease for over twenty years until his body needed the rest he so deserved.

Above all else, Ernie was a man deeply loved and admired by those who knew him. He is survived by his devoted wife, Sue Foster; his sons, Bradley and Tyler; his daughters-in-law, Patty and Tammy; and his grandchildren, Cameron, Amber, Amanda, and Ion. Along with four great-grandchildren. He will also be fondly remembered by many friends, colleagues, and members of his extended family. To each of them, he was respected as an employee, considered a friend by dozens, cherished as a dad, grandpa, brother, cousin, and, of course, a loving husband.

Ernie’s journey has now reached its peaceful end, but his legacy of love, strength, and integrity will endure in the hearts of his family and friends. What more could a man accomplish on the journey of life?

Family and friends are invited to a viewing to pay their respects to on Thursday, August 6, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Layne's Funeral Services, 16 NE Clark Ave, Battle Ground, WA. 98604

He will be dearly missed and forever remembered.