Ernest Tsalaky

"Ernie" Tsalaky, beloved husband, father, grandfather and brother, died November 24, 2017 peacefully at his home in Salt Lake City of natural causes related to Parkinson's Disease. 

Ernie was born January 30, 1934 in Provo, Utah to Theophilus John and Aphrodite Sevdalis Tsalaky.  He graduated from Provo High then served his country honorably in the United States Army where he was stationed in Korea. He married Joan Stewart on October 29, 1960.

Ernie spent his life serving others, from managing a Sprouse Reitz store to an emerging Old Spaghetti Factory. He spent 30 proud years dedicated to the Swire Coca Cola distributor from where he retired.

Ernie was a kind, gentle and happy soul who cherished family above all else.  He enjoyed the simple things in life always had a "cute joke" ready to make those around him smile.  He will be remembered for the countless moments of joy and laughter he brought to his family and everyone that he met.

He is survived by his wife Joan Stewart Tsalaky, daughters; Stephanie (Robby) Russo, Deanna Coffman and Kris Anne (Paul) Long; all of Salt Lake City, grandchildren; Alex (Natalie) Coffman of Loma Linda, CA,  Hillary Russo, Holly (Mitchell) Ackley, and Kyle Long of Salt Lake City, great grandchildren; Brooks Coffman  and Belle Ackley, sister Eva (Jerry) Costacos of Seattle WA, brother Tony Tsalaky of Seattle, WA, sister in law Molly Tsalaky of Post Falls, ID and numerous nieces and nephews.  Proceeded in death by his parents, brothers Theophilus Tsalaky and George Tsalaky and grandson Travis Coffman. 

The family wishes to express their gratitude to IMC Hospice and especially to Julie, Josie, Cynthia, and Bonnie who showed care and compassion to Ernie and allowed him and the family a sense  of dignity during this journey.

A celebration of Ernie's life will be held Tuesday, November 28, 2017 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City. Guests are encouraged to use the complimentary valet parking provided on the north side of the building.  Internment will be held at Mount Olivet Cemetery, 1342 East 500 South, Salt Lake City on Wednesday, November 29, 2017 at 11:00 am.