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JOHN ERNST Obituary
John J. Ernst WWII Army Veteran. Age 96. Beloved husband of the late Grace, nee Williamson; loving brother of Dorothy (late David) Zimmerman, late Albert (late Geraldine) Ernst and the late Marie Stockinger; dearly loved uncle to numerous nieces and nephews. John Ernst was an infantry rifleman and served in the 508th paratroop unit of the 82nd Airborne Division. He performed two combat jumps and was wounded four times in combat. He fought in Holland, Belgium and Germany and participated in the D-Day Invasion. His last campaign was the Battle of Ardennes the outcome of which shortened the war thus saving many lives. He was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation for operations in the European theatre, four purple hearts and three bronze stars for combat valor. The family is especially grateful to the outstanding staff at Hines ECC-1C for the care provided during the past six years. John was a member of D.A.V Chicago Post#2, V.F.W. Post# 6863, American Legion Post #991 and retired Teamster Local 710. Visitation Monday, 3 to 9 p.m. at Hills Funeral Home, Ltd. 10201 S. Roberts Rd. (8000W.) Palos Hills. Funeral Tuesday, 10:30 a.m. chapel service at the funeral home. Entombment Mt. Auburn Cemetery. Info. 708-598-5880 To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for JOHN ERNST
Michael O
March 21, 2010
I want to tell you a little story about John Ernst, and how the valiant life he led touched a number of people who were never fortunate enough to meet the man.
I’m an early riser – I normally take the 6:15 train into work, to downtown Chicago, and I give myself a lot of credit for being a “trooper” who works those hours so he can get home early to spend time with his kids. Lately, work has been tougher than usual, so I started taking the 5:40 train in. And the first time I took that train in, I was feeling very much put upon — I’ve got to go into the office even earlier than usual to do my legal research, and put a lot of paper out.
One thing about the 5:40 train is, it makes all stops, and that means I can read the entire newspaper, even the sections I don’t normally read. And at the tail end of that ride, when I was feeling most sorry for myself, I start reading the obituaries --only because I had read everything else. And who is looking out at me, but John Ernst, in his uniform, and the picture grabbed me (there he is, looking like the brawling, laughing, broad-shouldered embodiment of Sandburg’s Chicago) and it caused me to read the account of his sacrifice for his country, his quiet heroism, and his devotion to family.
After reading it, I could feel put upon no longer---I tore the obituary out the paper and put it in my briefcase, and I intend on having it framed. And perhaps laminated – because every time I have met with one of my friends who complains of how tough things are for them, these days, I pull it out. I say read this -- you’re not a hero, and you’ve got nothing to complain about. Look at this fellow, staring at you from the Ardennes Mountains 65 years ago, big as life, laughing, uncomplaining, and unbowed – who is he, and what is he saying to you.
In these words, or words to this effect, they all respond: “That is a man”.
And he is saying “Man up!”
When I tell them I am going have the obituary framed, they ask if I will have a second framed for them, for their office, for those days when they have to take the 5:40 train to their desk.
Angela Dellutri
February 26, 2010
Dan and Lynn,
I went to see my Dad today. As I usually did, I went to visit your Uncle with my Dad for a few minutes when I saw he wasn't in the dining room. I then found out about his passing. I'm so sorry to hear this. We really enjoyed when your Unc was in the room with my Dad.
I'll never forget when my father first came into the ECC. Your Uncle said he was going to work and my father told him he would take him in his car that was right outside the window. The two of them made a great pair.
I read the article that was in the book near the birdcage and it sounds like he had a long, full life.
Our thoughs and prayers are with you and your family. He will be missed.
Take Care,
Angela Dellutri
Erin Jameson
February 24, 2010
Dan and Lynn,
What a great tribute to a real American Hero. We enjoyed hearing stories about Unc's tenacity and strength during WWII. Our sincere condolences.
Art, Erin and Amelia
Mike Sweeney
February 23, 2010
Dan and Lynn I'm deeply saddened by hearing the loss of your Uncle John. This country owes a great deal of gratitude for those like your uncle John who fought fearlessly for our freedom during WWII. I'll always remember the smile he brought with him to the lobby of ECC. I'll miss Unc. With sympathy.
A proud 82nd liberating Paris
February 22, 2010
Brad Harbaugh
February 22, 2010
Dan and Lynn, we join you and your family in celebrating the heroic life of your Uncle John. Love Julie, Brad and D.J.
Diane Neris
February 22, 2010
Dan & Lynn,
It was an honor to meet Uncle Johnnie at his birthday party (90)some years back. He was one in a million. I can never forget his jovial smile and good humor. I am grateful for his service to our country and love that he was like family to the staff at the Hines VA extended care unit. His memory will be cherished. My sympathy and prayers go out to your family. You knew what a treasure you had in Unc.He had a very full life.
Suzanne Lucas
February 21, 2010
Dan and Lynn,
I considered Mr. Ernst part of my family. He will be missed by all of us, and my prayers are with you for the loss of your Unc.
Dale Kirchberg
February 21, 2010
Dan and Lynn,
Our sincerest sympathy on the loss of your uncle to you and your family.
Dan and Dale Kirchberg and family
Uncle John and Grace (named after the late Aunt Grace)
February 21, 2010
Uncle John and Grace (named after the late Aunt Grace)
February 21, 2010
Jens Anderson
February 21, 2010
Dear Uncle John
We love you and will miss you very much.
Love,
Jens, Peggy,Grace,Margaret
Showing 1 - 12 of 12 results
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Hills Funeral and Cremation Services at Lack & Sons Chapel9236 South Roberts Road, Hickory Hills, IL 60457
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