Tribute & Message From The Family
Ernest D. Brightman, 96, of Mt. Lebanon passed away peacefully on April 29, 2022. Loving husband of 65 years to Clare (Rosenberger) Brightman, proud father of Jeffry (Kathleen), Kent (Lori) and Elizabeth (Ken) Ericson, adoring grandfather of Kaitlyn, Katie, Kayla, Ryan, Blake, Sarah and Ava. He is also survived by his many cherished nieces and nephews, and preceded in death by his parents, brother, Ralph and sister, Rena.
Ernie served in the U.S. Marine Corps in World War II as a crew chief on the aircraft carrier USS Puget Sound with the 454 Torpedo Dive Bombing Squadron. His aircraft carrier was next to the USS Missouri, where Gen. Douglas MacArthur signed the peace treaty that ended the war. After serving in the Marines, Ernie spent 26 years at Allis-Chalmers, and later as an insurance agent for Monarch and New England Life and formed The Brightman Company providing insurance products. His greatest pleasure was spending time with his grandchildren, family and friends. Ernie will be missed because of his outgoing and warm personality.
A memorial service will be held at 10:00 am on Wednesday, June 1 at Our Lady of Grace, 310 Kane Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA. Interment will follow at Queen of Heaven Cemetery, 2900 Washington Rd, McMurray, PA.
Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at slaterfuneral.com. Arrangements entrusted to WILLIAM SLATER II FUNERAL SERVICE (412-563-2800), Scott Twp. www.slaterfuneral.com
Condolence & Memory Journal
Ernie was such a caring neighbor and parishioner, offering advice, kindness, and his help at Our Lady of Grace. His welcoming smile has made people feel at ease at church and in his home. Over these many decades, their family helped to make everyone on our block "family." I miss you already, dear friend. Paula
Posted by
Paula Elliott - Pittsburgh, PA - neighbor May 23, 2022
Dad thank you for being the best husband, dad and grandfather ever! You always took the moments with us to teach me how to play softball, take us to Oglebay Park, watch one of our swim meets or soccer games. When you became a grandfather you then put all that energy, warmth and love into your grandkids. We were so lucky to have you as a dad! You have always been there for us, it is hard to imagine a day without you. I love you and you will always have a special place in my heart!
Posted by
Beth Ericson - Annapolis, MD - Daughter May 08, 2022
Deepest Sympathy to Clare and Family on the loss of a great guy! He was always gracious, welcoming and happy to share a story and a little glass of wine on his beautiful patio that he was so proud of! He was a perfect example to us on how to age with humor and dignity. He will be missed!
Posted by
Kathy and Mike Prentiss - Pittsburgh, PA - Neighbor May 05, 2022
Elizabeth and family, my sincere sympathy to you and your family. When you look up to the sky don't think of them as stars, think of them as porch lights welcoming your Dad safely home.
Posted by
Angela Escher - Murrysville, PA May 02, 2022
Thank you Papa for being a person to lean on in my life. It was never a dull time with you and you were always there to brighten our days and put a smile on our faces. Endless jokes and silly remarks were your specialty. I will never forget the fun times I had with you growing up. My favorite memory was when you chased Buffett around your yard with Sarah and me. The joy you brought into our lives and everyone else's was amazing and I am so thankful for the time we had with you. I love you very much and miss you more than anything. Thank you for the impact you made on my life and everyone else's <3.>
Posted by
Katie Ericson - Annapolis, MD - Grandchild May 02, 2022
To my day one. To my best friend. To the man that could make anyone smile in a second. To my papa. The way you lived life changed my aspect on everything. You were the person i look up to and still will always be a huge impact on my life. I wills always be your little side kick. And i will always remember the amazing memories of making fun of your nose. Being with you made me the happiest. You deserve every single day of those 96 years. They have an amazing angle up there. My happiness in life is for you now papa,you will be on my mind forever. Love you papa and miss you already
4/29/22
Posted by
Sarah Ericson - Annapolis, MD - Family May 01, 2022