Ernest G. Tacsik

Ernest G. Tacsik, “Ernie,” 66, resident of Dallas, TX, and formerly of Austintown, died while vacationing in Egypt on October 10, 2024. 

Ernie was born in Youngstown, grew up in Austintown, and relocated to Dallas after college. He attended Immaculate Heart of Mary grade school and Austintown-Fitch High School. He earned a BS degree in Electrical Engineering at Youngstown State University, a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering at Southern Methodist University, and an MBA at The University of Dallas. 

In his career he worked as a senior engineer and was instrumental in the establishment of international telecommunications standards in the 2000s.

While he traveled extensively for work, he really racked up the air miles in his off time, visiting every corner of the U.S. and vacationing all over the world. Always an adventurer, when anyone would suggest an activity, he’d immediately say, “Let’s go!” 

His other passions were photography, boating, scuba diving, water and snow skiing, playing pickleball and tennis, and racing his Suzuki GXR 750 motorcycle and his modified M3 BMW automobile. Always on the lookout for new (or old) guy toys, he wouldn’t give a second thought to driving hundreds of miles to pick up a cycle, tool, or car part. One time, he brought the interior of his boat to Arizona from Dallas to have it redone. 

Proud of his heritage, he got on a Hungarian Balaton Cherry Pie baking kick a few years ago. Homecomings always involved eating his favorite foods, including Brier Hill pizza, pierogi, and other local fare. 

He was a loving son to his parents, Ernest Tacsik, Sr. and Elizabeth (Betty) Tacsik, who preceded him in death. He leaves behind his wife, Chang Gao, whom he met while on a tour in China 20 years ago; cousins, including Russell Koneval of Austintown; and many friends who loved him like a brother. 

Visitation will be held 4:00-6:00 p.m., Friday, October 25, at Higgins-Reardon Funeral Home—Austintown Chapel, 4303 Mahoning Avenue, Austintown, OH 44515. 

This obituary can be shared and condolences sent to the family by visiting www.higgins-reardon.com