Ernest “Ernie” George Siddons

Ernest George Siddons

1933 - 2025

Born in Walsall, England to Thomas and Phoebe Siddons, Ernest “Ernie” Siddons, age 91, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on June 4, 2025. 

Ernie’s passing was preceded by his wife and love of his life, Diane. Their bond lasted 70 years, including 63 years of marriage. Together, they raised three children: David (Stephanie), Jane Herrmann (George Thompson), and Edward (Kim), and were proud grandparents to eight grandchildren: Riley, Matt, Haley, Will, Emmie, Annabel, Jake, and Katie. Ernie is also survived by his brother, Alan Siddons.

Ernie’s work ethic, determination, and grit were forged in his early years as he, alongside his mother and younger sister - and so many others - made a life in wartime England while his father served overseas in the British Army for the entirety of WWII.  

Following his own stint in the British Army and an apprenticeship with Agar Bates Neal & Co, Ernie earned his certification as a Chartered Accountant and shortly afterwards moved his new family to Leeds. In 1977, he embraced another life-changing opportunity to relocate with Diane - and now 3 children - across the pond to Fox Chapel, PA, where he joined Ampco-Pittsburgh Corporation.  From there, he went on to enjoy a distinguished career that spanned more than 40 years retiring as Ampco’s President/COO and Board member.

Throughout his life, Ernie made a point of supporting others and his community from roles as Roundtable, Rotary and Foundation Chair, as volunteer and sponsor.

An avid rugby player and life-long sports fan, Ernie relished the time that he dedicated to coaching and supporting his children and grandchildren in their athletic endeavors. He also loved the challenge of searching for the elusive “secret” on the golf courses at the Pittsburgh Field Club and Fiddlesticks Country Club, where he and Diane spent their winters.

Ernie delighted in striking up conversations with anyone, often feigning surprise when his accent was compared to Sean Connery’s. A lover of music, it was not uncommon for him to break out in song.   

He will be fondly remembered for his deep love for his wife and family, his sharp mind, the passion with which he approached everything he did….And for that unmistakable English voice.

A celebration of Ernie’s life will be held at 11:30 a.m. Friday, August 1st at Christ Church Fox Chapel, 410 Christ Church Lane, Pittsburgh, PA 15238.

In memory of Ernie and in honor of his love for Diane, the family requests memorial donations in lieu of flowers, made via check to The Live Like Lou Foundation, 2 South Campus Avenue, Oxford, OH 45056, or online at livelikelou.org/donate. Please note “In memory of Diane Siddons”.

Arrangements by Weddell-Ajak Funeral Home, Aspinwall.

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