ERNST, BURTON LEE, 1936 – 2020

Our wonderful father passed from this life into the hands of God on December 28, 2020, after a brief battle with cancer. Dad was born in Eyota, Minnesota, on August 28, 1936, to Lloyd Scott Ernst and Christine Henrietta Ernst. Dad was the youngest of 10 children and sorrowfully watched all of his siblings and their spouses pass before him.

Mom and Dad were married on April 12, 1957, and were married nearly 60 years before Mom passed on November 21, 2016. Dad's love for Mom has been everlasting; he was ready to join her in heaven.

Their legacy includes their children, spouses and grandchildren, Brian and Julie (Shawna, Casie, Jacqueline, Jacob, Josh) Damon and Shannon (Carissa, Aric, Mandy, Caitlyn) Loren and Kathy (Nathan, Colt, Brielle) Luree and Rick (Brandon, Jerica, Shayna) Darren and Jen (Kylie, Tyler, Robin, Megan). 32 great-grandchildren with number 33 on the way. The numbers of nieces and nephews are countless.

Dad has been an incredible blessing to all. He was loved by so many because he loved so many, so well. Dad made each of his children, grandchildren and great-children feel as the most special one, regardless of how challenging we may have been. God blessed us through Dad's unconditional love for us.

Dad was a hard worker who never missed work. He served in the Air Force during the Korean war. The last 34 years of his career was at Kaiser Aluminum Mead where he worked his way through the ranks - rodding room, electrician, general foreman to assistant maintenance superintendent. The folks at Kaiser fondly remember "Burtlert". Dad was also the electrician and fix it man for St. Mary's Presentation and for any friend or neighbor who needed some help. You could not ask for a more loyal friend.

Dad loved being on the golf course with his golfing buddies in Deer Park. Enjoyed many bowling leagues over the years. Dad was an avid fan of Zag's basketball and Seahawks football. He loved his 41 Buick, 76 Corvette and his 87 Van. Dad was a car nut.

As Dad's family, we know we are truly blessed to have Dad for so many years. Prayers were answered because Dad did not suffer long. The loss hurts us to our core. Yet, in faith, we know Dad has earned his eternal reward in heaven.

Funeral and burial will be held at St. Mary's Presentation in Deer Park on January 16, at 11:00 a.m. Due to COVID restrictions, only immediate family will attend. We will have a much larger gathering in the future.