Wayne Ernst

1936 - 2026

Wayne Ernst passed away peacefully at home in Boise on March 12, 2026, just short of his 90th birthday, with his family by his side.

Wayne was born March 24, 1936, in Medical Lake, Washington. He grew up in Caldwell, with his parents Paul and Ruth Ernst, and sisters Virginia and Carolyn. He was always busy, whether helping on the farm, at Ernst Coal or at whatever job he found to help the family and help with fees for playing sports. Wayne enjoyed the outdoors, especially in his younger years when he spent time camping, hunting, and fishing. He also loved sports and played both football and baseball at Caldwell High School, graduating in 1956. He went on to attend Boise Junior College, where he played football under the coaching of Lyle Smith.

In December 1959, Wayne married Carolyn Paris and settled in Caldwell. Their family started to grow in 1962, with the birth of Debbie. She was followed by two more sisters Pam, born in 1964, and Rebecca born in 1968. He and Carolyn divorced in 1982.

Wayne spent over 50 years in commercial construction. He started with Walter Opp Construction and ended his career at age of 80 - working as a Project Manager for Simplot Construction and Engineering.

In 1988, he married Janie, and together they made a home in Boise. After retiring, he put a lot of care and attention into his garden. He was always willing to share his harvest and any tips that may help another gardener.

He was preceded in death by his parents Paul and Ruth Ernst, his daughter Rebecca Ernst, stepdaughter Lisa Jackson, his sister Virginia and her husband Charlie Swan, nephew Michael Swan and nephew John Payne.

He is survived by his wife, Janie, along with his children, Deb (Doug) Storey Hellinga, Pam (Bruce), and stepdaughter Kelly (Dave)Ferguson. his sister Carolyn (Frank) Payne, grandchildren-Brenna (J) Downs, William Storey (Aislinn), Brandon (Eliza) Hellinga, Jackson (Heidi) Storey, Ella Ernst, two great-granddaughters, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He'll be missed for his quiet strength, his kindness, and the way he was always there for his family. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Idaho Youth Ranch. They would also like to thank Adria, Torri, and Bonnie with First Choice Hospice for the care they gave Wayne in his final years.