Amanda "Ame" Marie Ervin

Amanda “Ame” Marie Ervin died on Feb. 26, 2011 at the age of 25. Ame was born Jan. 29, 1986 at Fallbrook Hospital, the daughter of Brad and Pauli (Moramarco) Ervin. As the oldest of four children, her childhood and teenage years were happy; later she would relate the security and love provided by her family to images created by Norman Rockwell, depicting scenes of the quintessential American upbringing.

School came easily for Ame and her natural aptitude made good grades a given. She proved to be a valuable addition to the girls’ water polo team at Orange Glen High School, and as a popular sport in the Ervin household, her achievements were a source of pride to her family.

A couple of years after graduating high school, anxious for an adventure, Ame took a job as a live-in nanny in New York City and spent her free time exploring a culture that was an excellent fit for her independent, confident energy. The pull of San Diego was eventually too hard to resist and Ame returned home to begin studying graphic design at Coleman College. With innate creative talent now coupled with knowledge and experience, she soon found success as a freelance graphic designer and continued to work steadily after her graduation.

Ame filled many roles in her life. As a daughter, she was a loving supporter and attentive confidant. As a big sister, she was a caring mentor and fierce advocate. As a friend, she was a steadfast ally and inspiring paragon.

Ame was preceded in death by her grandfather Steve Ervin. Besides her parents, she is survived by siblings Trevor, Melodie and Steven; grandparents Mario and Nancy Moramarco of Rainbow; grandmother Beverly Ervin of Escondido; step-grandmother Marlene Ervin of Seattle; many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

The loss of a loved one is always difficult, but never more agonizing than when that life is young. Because with their passing, so perishes their potential, and we are left only with the vestiges of a life departed. We grieve now, not only for our loss, but for the loss of those who had yet to cross paths with Ame’s captivating personality; the loss of opportunity, of aspirations unrealized.

A Celebration of Life was held March 5, 2011.