Ernest Duane Robinson, a native of a small, unassuming town in southern Kansas, embarked on a life-altering journey to central Oklahoma, a region whose unique landscape would forever reshape the course of his early years. At Moore High School, Ernest dedicated himself to honing his skills, which would later prove indispensable in his professional endeavors, by investing significant part-time hours at an aircraft manufacturing plant. His meticulous attention to detail and design expertise played a pivotal role in the production process, setting the stage for a distinguished career. As his professional trajectory evolved, Ernest made the bold decision to relocate to central Florida, immersing himself fully in the defense industry. He assumed the role of a designer, applying his refined skills to drive innovation and success in this new chapter of his life.
Ernest's genuine enthusiasm and ardor transcended the mundane boundaries of his daily routine, instead, he found solace in the exhilarating realm of high-speed competition, where the cacophony of revving engines and the rush of adrenaline coursing through his veins served as a potent elixir for his soul.
It was within the intense, high-stakes environment of the local drag strip, a vibrant nexus of thrills, rivalries, and personal triumphs, that Ernest discovered a profound sense of purpose and belonging, a feeling that proved elusive in other areas of his existence.
This sacred sanctuary, where the very air was electric with the anticipation of speed and the precision of mechanical mastery, became Ernest's haven, a place where he could surrender himself to the intoxicating allure of the racetrack, and temporarily shed the burdens of his everyday life.
Ernest's life took an unexpected turn, as his destiny intertwined with that of the illustrious filmmaker Ron Howard, who would later utilize the very same location as the backdrop for his critically acclaimed 1989 cinematic masterpiece Parenthood. Ernest's remarkable aptitude for embodying the persona of a track official, complemented by his stepson Ryan's involvement with a racing crew, rendered him an exemplary candidate for the role.
Ernest's innate creativity was afforded an unparalleled opportunity to take center stage as he was entrusted with a prestigious commission, which tasked him with showcasing his artistic prowess by transforming the emergency vehicle of a renowned racing track into a masterpiece, a project that he tackled with remarkable haste and dexterity, ultimately completing the endeavor in a remarkably brief span of only two days, all from the comfort and convenience of his own private garage.
Ernest and his spouse stood at a crossroads, their minds consumed by a profound yearning to re-establish meaningful connections with their cherished relationships, ultimately prompting a pivotal decision to relocate back to Oklahoma, a location that held a profound and deeply personal significance in their collective experience.
Ernest's triumphant return to his hometown was marked by a heartwarming reception, as he embarked on a new venture, hosting a beloved local television program called "What's Your Hobby?", a platform that allowed him to enthusiastically share the richly diverse array of interests and exceptional talents that existed within the community.
Ernest's career in design gradually drew to a close, marking the beginning of his well-deserved retirement. Little did he know, a sudden and intriguing opportunity was on the horizon, beckoning him to venture into the realm of film. Specifically, the production of the movie Stillwater presented itself, offering Ernest the chance to participate in a unique capacity as an extra. With a keen sense of adventure and a willingness to seize the day, Ernest not only accepted the invitation but also took the opportunity to showcase his impressive photography skills by capturing breathtaking stills on set.
As the cameras rolled and the scenes unfolded, Ernest found himself drawn into a world of storytelling, where his artistic eye and love of narrative collided in a beautiful dance. The experience was nothing short of unforgettable, as Ernest's passion for photography and his innate ability to tell stories merged in a way that left an indelible mark on his soul. The memories of that time on set would remain with him forever, a testament to the power of embracing new experiences and the magic that can unfold when one's passions converge.
Donnie, Ernest's son, was granted the extraordinary opportunity to accompany his father on the film set, where he took on the role of a newspaper reporter. This singular experience allowed the father-son duo to forge an unbreakable bond as they collectively relived this unforgettable moment in their lives.
Ernest's unwavering enthusiasm to form meaningful bonds with the diverse and eclectic group of people involved in a film production is strikingly evident, serving as a testament to his amiable and outgoing personality.
