Funeral services for Lee Ernst of Morris, formerly of Alberta will be held Thursday, October 23, 2014 at 10:30 a.m. at Federated Church in Morris. Reverend Lauren Snell will be officiating. Visitation will be held Wednesday from 5 to 7 p.m. with a prayer service at 6:30 p.m. at the Pedersen Funeral Home in Morris and for one hour prior to services at the church on Thursday. Burial will be in Summit Cemetery in Morris.
Lee Wilbur Ernst was born on December 15, 1922 to William and Jennie (Lund) Ernst in Scott Township, in rural Alberta, Minnesota. He grew up and attended school in Alberta, graduating in 1940. Lee farmed with his father until entering military service in 1945, serving in the Pacific Theater and South Korea. Lee married Eldora Backman in Morris on October 26, 1951. They made their home at Alberta, living on the same farm until retirement.
Lee enjoyed playing baseball as a child as well as playing high school sports, and he liked music and reading. Lee's favorite times of the year were early Summer and the days of vibrant color changes in the Fall. He really enjoyed his life's work as a farmer and was an avid collector of miniature tractors. Lee will be remembered as a kind and considerate neighbor and friend, always gentle and quick with a smile.
Lee was a member of Pepperton Methodist Church and the VFW Post 5039 of Morris.
Lee died on Saturday, October 18, 2014 at his home in Morris, Minnesota. He was 91 years old.
Lee is survived by his aunt, Grace Ernst of Morris; brother-in-law, Fred Sperr of Chokio; sister-in-law, Elizabeth Ascheman of Morris; nieces: LuAnn (LeRoy) Honkomp, Louise (Doug) Christians, Corlys Behan, Arlou Flannigan and Janet (Greg) Staebler; nephews: Alan (Karen) Backman, Doug (Carol) Backman, Steve (Cathy) Backman, Brad (Jonna) Backman and Jon (Jackie Hentges) Backman and cousins. He was preceded in death by his wife, Eldora in 1996; his parents, William and Jennie; brothers-in-law, John Backman and Jerry Backman; sisters-in-law, Josephine Backman and Christine Sperr and niece, Joni Beth Backman.
Pedersen Funeral Home in Morris is in charge of the arrangements.
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