Ernie, age 89, of Parksville, BC, died in Nanaimo, BC on March 9, 2016, surrounded by his wife and all five of his children.
He was predeceased by his parents, five siblings, son-in-law, Gary, and daughter-in-law, Esther.
Ernie leaves behind his loving family; his wife of 68 ½ years, Lucille (Toni); children, Linda Hodgkinson, Douglas (Laura), Wayne, Barbara Collins (Paul), and Michael (Tish LaMothe); 16 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-grandchild; his sister, Doris (Ken) Grant; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and numerous friends.
Ernie was born in Cut Knife, SK, and lived on the family farm near Unity, SK. He moved to Lac La Biche, AB, where he met his life partner, Lucille Combs. The couple moved to Vancouver Island, where they raised their family. Ernie worked at the MacMillan Bloedel Pulp and Paper Mill in Port Alberni for over 40 years as a welder and blacksmith, forging many lifelong friendships.
The family would like to thank Dave and Hillie Jenkins and Gary Allison for their help and support.
At Ernie’s request, there will be no funeral service. Family will inter Ernie’s urn in Unity, SK at a later date.
Flowers gratefully declined. If so desired, donations may be made in Ernie’s memory to the BC Children’s Hospital Foundation.