John L. Ernst

John L. Ernst, was called home to be with his Lord and Savior on August 2, 2023 at the age of 92. John was born on January 8, 1931 to his late parents Lorenz Ernst and Lydia Ernst (nee Radue). He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Marie (nee Suelflow) on August 18, 1951, and together their marriage was blessed with five children.

John grew up on a farm. He was drafted into the U.S. Army where he spent two years in Germany with his beloved wife at his side. He then worked with his three brothers at Ernst Brothers Sand and Gravel. Following that, he worked for an insurance agency and at a stockbroker firm. But the core of John’s life was loving the Lord and he was an active member of his church, Trinity Ev. Lutheran Church – Freistadt. He loved his family and took them camping and taught them life skills, hard work, and perseverance. He was always busy and doing woodwork, baking bread and cookies, and various other creative endeavors. He loved to garden and was especially good at growing flowers. Together, John and Marie spent many years wintering in Texas where they created many friendships. He enjoyed entertaining and was quite good at Sheepshead.

John is survived by his wife, Marie of 72 years; his five children, Keith (Kathy), Karen (Tom), Gail (Steve), Ellen (Steve), and John; along with his 12 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren with one on the way. He is further survived by many friends and family.

John is preceded in death by his parents and six siblings, Elmer (Elsie), Ruth (Bill), Melvin (Gert), Alice (Bert), Elroy (Lucille), and Irmgard (Les).

There will be a funeral service held for John on Monday, August 7, 2023 at 12:00PM. He will be in state from 10:00AM – 11:45AM. A burial will take place immediately following the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Trinity Ev. Lutheran Church - Freistadt are appreciated.