Family, Friends Remember Former Ygnacio Valley High Principal

More than 100 people attended a memorial service on Thursday for the man who led Ygnacio Valley High School during its first quarter century of existence.

Ernest Wutzke was remembered for his success as a person, a father, a husband, an uncle and an educator during the service at the Gateway Club House in the Rossmoor retirement community of Walnut Creek.

"He was a good dad, a good husband and a good man," said his daughter, Patricia Grahn.

Wutzke died April 20 at the age of 86. He was born in North Dakota and received his bachelor and master's degrees from the University of North Dakota.

He received a doctorate in education administration from U.C. Berkeley.

He was Ygnacio Valley High's principal when it first opened in 1962 and oversaw the school until 1986. He was well-respected and liked, affectionally known as "Smiling Ern" on campus.

"The school was one of the things my father was most proud of," said Grahn. "I know my father had such love for the staff and the students."

Grahn described her dad as an earnest and honest man with a good sense of humor.

"He always had good advice for us and was willing to give it to us often," Grahn said with a smile.

Grahn and a nephew were the only speakers to deliver eulogies during the mostly religious service.

People were encouraged to share memories at tables during a reception after the memorial.

Wutzke is survived by his wife of 63 years, Hallie, his son Michael Wutzke, daughters Patricia Grahn and Mary Sherman and four grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association of Northern California.