Ernestino "Ernie" Lawrence Surell

Ernestino Lawrence “Ernie” Surell, a four-time world champion powerlifter and devoted husband to Susan Branch Surell, passed away peacefully on August 31, 2025, at the age of 77. A longtime resident of Rockport, Texas, Ernie was revered not only for his exceptional strength but also for his generous heart, humble nature, and steadfast commitment to family and community.

Born to the late Rosendo Lopez Surell and Edna Lawrence Surell, Ernie was raised on Madden Drive in North Charleston, South Carolina. He graduated from Chicora High School and went on to attend The Citadel, Military College of South Carolina, where he earned a master’s degree in electrical engineering. He later pursued business studies at Palmer College in Charleston. Ernie also served honorably in the United States Army.

Ernie’s lifelong passion for powerlifting defined much of his journey. A four-time world champion, he was a respected figure in the sport and a dedicated mentor to many. He founded the Charleston Barbell Club to share his love of strength training and inspire others. His professional career included roles at SUPSHIP Charleston and Ingleside Shipyards, as well as service as a substitute teacher across all grade levels in the public school system. He also coached baseball, football, and powerlifting, encouraging young athletes with his discipline, enthusiasm, and humility.

Ernie is survived by his loving wife, Susie, and his children: Angela (Donald) Miller, Antoinette “Toni” Lemieux, Stephanie Surell, Samantha (Erwin) Dullas, Ernie Ross (Cara) Surell, Jay (Candace) Spivey, and Justin Spivey. He was a proud grandfather to twelve grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters: Gloria S. Davis of Rio Linda, CA; Brenda S. Dunn of Ocean Springs, MS; and Glenda S. Weaver of Roswell, GA.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Avelina S. Novak, and his brother, David Lawrence Surell.

Ernie will be fondly remembered for his extraordinary strength, practical wisdom, infectious humor, and deep devotion to his family. He found joy in powerlifting, boxing, arm wrestling, golf, tennis, shooting pool, and his love for American muscle cars and motorcycles.

He was an active member of numerous organizations, including USA Powerlifting (USAPL), United States Powerlifting Federation (USPF), International Powerlifting Federation (IPF), American Drug-Free Powerlifting Association (ADFPA), American Powerlifting Federation (APF), Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), the American Legion, and the Moose Lodge.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2025. Visitation will take place from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at J. Henry Stuhr Northwoods Chapel, followed by a memorial service. Interment will follow at Carolina Memorial Gardens Cemetery.

A memorial message may be sent to the family by visiting our website at www.jhenrystuhr.com.