Ernest Y. Lee of Sacramento, California, a true American hero, passionate entrepreneur, lover of music and art, Christian, and a man whose life was a testament to the pursuit of excellence and adventure, passed away on October 17, 2023, in Houston, Texas, after a fierce battle with cancer. He was born on February 7, 1985, and leaves behind a lasting legacy of remarkable achievements, inspiration, and love.

Ernest, known to many as Ernie, lived a life that was nothing short of extraordinary. He excelled from an early age, graduating at the top of his class from Rio Americano High School, where he was editor in chief of the yearbook and participated in a number of clubs and organizations. In 2003, Ernie received an appointment to the United States Military Academy at West Point, where he cemented his reputation as a leader among leaders, graduating with distinction in 2007. Following West Point, Ernie was commissioned as an Infantry Officer in the U.S. Army and stationed in Germany, deploying in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2008. Later, Ernie would go on to become an elite Special Forces officer, leading the Army’s most highly trained soldiers in a number of overseas assignments. During his time serving his country, Ernie traveled the globe and exemplified courage, strength, and an unwavering commitment to being the best - as he always was. A mountain of a man, his awards and achievements are the stuff of legends – Ranger School honor graduate; Special Forces Assessment & Selection valedictorian; top-ranked officer in every unit in which he served. Ernest was beloved by juniors, superiors, and peers alike, many of whom swear that he was the finest officer and person they had ever met.

Following his military service, Ernest continued to pursue his passions and push the boundaries of what was possible. As a lifelong musician who composed over 100 instrumentals, he sought a path in the business world that would marry his interest in technology with his love of music. He secured a short summer internship at a virtual reality startup called AmazeVR, and consistent with his history of high achievement, went from intern to co-CEO in a flash, despite having no prior business experience. Ernest embraced startup culture and was a true believer in AmazeVR’s mission to revolutionize the music industry using virtual reality technology. He wasn't just an executive; he was a visionary. In a world awash with people unhappy with their careers, it was refreshing to see a person who was exactly where he wanted to be in his professional life.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Ernie was known for his larger-than-life personality, massive frame, and gentle heart. He had an incredible array of interests and pursuits that reflected his insatiable appetite for life. In addition to his love for music, Ernest had an innate ability to truly appreciate all experiences the world has to offer, especially when it came to food and sharing it with people he loved. His passion for travel took him to every corner of the globe, seeking adventure and cultural experiences. Ernest visited over 50 countries, ran with the bulls in Pamplona, trekked to Base Camp of Mount Everest, camped with the Berbers in the Sahara, fished for piranhas in the Amazon, walked the halls of the greatest museums in Europe, rode the entire length of the Trans-Siberian Railroad, and skied, skydived, and bungee jumped everywhere in between. Ernest saw and did more in his short 38 years than most will ever dream of.

On paper, Ernie was the kind of person most would be jealous of, given his success at every turn, but any such feelings would be quickly undone upon meeting him. Ernie's kind heart, child-like enthusiasm for everything he did, and intensely loyal nature endeared him to those lucky enough to be part of his life. He saw the best in everyone and touched countless hearts with his charisma, kindness, and his ability to bring people together. His infectious enthusiasm for life and relentless optimism was a source of inspiration to all who had the privilege of knowing him. Even in his final days, he remained steadfast that his medical regression was just a setback, and he’d be back to living large in no time.

Ernest’s untimely passing is a profound loss to his family, friends, and countless others who were blessed to have known him. He is survived by his loving parents, Young Soo and Sang Hoa Lee, and his dear sister, Iris Lee, who shared in his dreams and aspirations, and stood by him through every unfair twist and turn cancer presented.

In his passing, we remember Ernest Y. Lee as being the best of us. While his time on this Earth was short, there is no doubt he lived it all-in. His legacy will live on, not only in the stories of his extraordinary life, but also in the hearts of his family, friends, and brothers-in-arms who learned how to live by standing next to this great man. Ernest will forever remain an indomitable spirit who lived life to the fullest, reminding us all that money can always be made but experiences cannot always be had, that you can always stay out a little later, that building up those around you is more fun than tearing them down, and that it’s always worthwhile to strive for greatness. 

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