Marian University and Sabre athletics mourns the unexpected passing of almuni Ernie DiDomizio.

Ernie passed away peacefully in his sleep at his residence April 1, 2024 at the age of 56.  An excellent athlete, Ernie was a member of the Marian men’s soccer program from 1987-90.  He was a part of the first conference championship in program history in 1988 after Marian went 14-3-0 overall with a perfect 6-0-0 ledger.  Following his playing career, he would serve as an assistant coach for the Sabres and also spent time coaching at Cardinal Stritch as well.  Ernie graduated from Marian with a degree in social work and later served as a social worker for at risk youth in the Milwaukee area.  He would later also earn a bachelors and masters degree in education and was a teacher at Choice Schools in Milwaukee. 

Ernie remained close to the Marian community and was a key piece to the creation of the annual Paul Sanchez 7-on-7 alumni tournament.  Ernie will be greatly missed by his family, by his colleagues, by his many students over the decades, and by his life-long friends. Ernie had an incredible way of integrating his many groups of friends from various places and situations in his life into one cohesive and ever-expanding whole. Those who knew Ernie, worked with Ernie, played with Ernie, and loved Ernie often used just two words to describe him: Ernie was a “gentle soul!”

The Funeral Service will take place on Saturday, April 13, 2024 at St. Catherine Catholic Church at N 51st and W. Center Street, Milwaukee. Visitation: 9:30 to 11:15am; Mass 11:30am.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to America Scores Milwaukee and/or Mulberry Gardens, both youth mentor and empowerment programs.