Jerome D. Ernst

Jerome D. “Jerry” Ernst, 80, of Van Wert, died at 5:55 p.m. Friday, January 9, 2015, at the Van Wert Area Inpatient Hospice Center.

He was born September 2, 1934, in Delphos, the son of Henry and Johanna (Baumgarte) Ernst, who both preceded him in death. On December 29, 1972, he married June (White) Ernst, who survives in Van Wert.

Other survivors include his children, Lisa (Bill) Deibler of Spencerville, Mark (Terri) Ernst of St. Marys and Ken (Peg) Cross of Middle Point; five grandchildren, Tabi Adams of Cridersville, Colt (MeMe) Adams of Spencerville, Meghan (Chad) Dicke of Van Wert and Anna and Allie Ernst, both of St. Marys; six great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Coletta Dray and Annabelle (Jerry) Saum, both of Fort Jennings.

A sister and seven brothers also preceded him in death.

He was retired from Federal-Mogul Corporation in Van Wert, where he was a product line manager. He was a member of St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Van Wert and the Delphos Eagles. He had proudly served his country as a member of the United States Army.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, January 14, at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, with Father Stan Szybka officiating. Burial will follow at a later date in Ridge Cemetery in rural Van Wert County.

Calling hours are from 9:30 a.m. until the time of services Wednesday at the church.

Preferred memorials: St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, Alzheimer’s research or Paralyzed Veterans.

Brickner Funeral Home in Van Wert handled arrangements.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.bricknerfuneralhome.com or emailed to bricknerfuneralhome@bright.net.