Ernest Gillum

Best wrestling coach ever! I found this in an old yearbook. RIP Coach!

Still missing you, bro!!

This morning waiting for a stop light, I briefly took my hands off the wheel and instantly heard Mr. Gillum's friendly but stern voice saying: "You have the sheer audacity to take your hands off the wheel at a traffic light? Never do that!" That was 45 years ago at Huron High and I credit him instilling in me a lifetime of safe and courteous driving habits. I've never forgotten him. I am so sorry to hear he passed away. He was a great man.

Ernie Gillum was my driver's ED teacher at HHS (Go River Rats!). He was a straight shooter, an impassioned man. It turns out I knew very little about the man, really, but what I do remember was a real respect for him as a teacher. I listened to the man, and am glad I did. I remember distinctly his ARDENT insistence that people pay attention to THEIR TIRES ! Too many people spending money on sound systems, on fancy paint jobs when they should be rolling on some new tires !

Ester Stevens and I just found out you were gone. RIH brother.

My Prayers are with the whole family. I am shocked because I didn't know until now being online. He helped me so much through High School taught me have to play tennis. He was so kind and smart. I am sad you didn't get a chance to meet your great nephew. You will be greatly missed.

To the family of Ernest Gillum,

Ernie and Ronnie have and will remain a part of my life until my earthly remains exist no more. I have so many great memories of the twins and the rest of their family. I fondly remember the pre-kindergarten times at their home next to Second Baptist Church in Ypsilanti, Sunday school activities in the church, being classmates at Harriet Street School and fellow Boy Scouts in Troop 33 under our Scout Master, Louis Freeman. I fondly recall those days...

To Ronnie and Family, I am so sorry for your loss. Great bowler who gave me some tips. I will be missed dearly. I am so sorry I didn't make his funeral, but I didn't know of his passing at that time.

I vividly remember having both of the Gillum brothers in class at Ypsilanti High School. I enjoyed them both immensely. I can remember them hiding behind the lockers in the gym at the old Ypsi building on Cross St. Along with Bob Arvin we had many enjoyable times together in class. They were all fine young men. I am now 88 and my memory from one moment to another is never very clear but those memories are still intact.