Eugene Harry Ernst

Eugene Harry Ernst, 96, of Delaware, passed away peacefully on October 31, 2025.
Born May 28, 1929, in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Eugene was the son of the late Louis and Lottie (Lefever) Ernst. He graduated from J.P. McCaskey High School in 1946. Later that year, on August 26, Eugene enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps along with his twin brother, Kenneth. Following basic training in San Antonio, Texas, and radar school in Boca Raton, Florida, he served overseas in Guam, Japan, and Okinawa. Eugene received advanced radar training while stationed at Kadena Air Base and was honorably discharged on August 12, 1949, after returning to the United States.
In 1949, Eugene began his studies at Penn State University, where he earned a degree in Electrical Engineering in 1953. During this time, he met the love of his life, Gloria Smith, at Millersville University (then Millersville State Teachers College). They were married on June 14, 1952, and shared more than 67 wonderful years together until Gloria's passing in January 2020.
Eugene began his professional career with Delaware Power & Light Co. (later Delmarva Power) in 1954, where he worked for 34½ years. He retired in 1989 as Supervisor of Substation Engineering, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, integrity, and technical excellence.
Beyond his professional life, Eugene was deeply devoted to his faith and community. He was an active member of both Faith Lutheran Church and Grace Lutheran Church, serving in many roles including Treasurer, President of Church Council, Finance Secretary, member of the Building Committee, and choir member. He was also active in the Delaware Saengerbund and proudly served as Treasurer of the Sons of the American Revolution for eight years.
Eugene's passions extended well beyond his work and service. He was an avid camper and gardener who found great joy in the beauty of the outdoors. Together with Gloria and their family, he traveled to nearly every National Park in the United States, creating a lifetime of cherished memories on their annual camping trips. A highlight of their later years was a cruise to Alaska, gifted by their children to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary.
Eugene was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Gloria; his parents, Louis and Lottie Ernst; his sisters, Norma J. Ernst and Mary J. Ernst; his brother, Robert L. Ernst; his twin, Kenneth G. Ernst; and his granddaughter-in-law, Abigail Mae Ernst.
He is survived by his children and their spouses, Diane Bollmeier (John), Keith Ernst (Judy), and Steve Ernst (Betsy); his grandchildren, Justin McKinley, Jennifer Rongaus (Ken), Andrew Ernst (Brie), Elizabeth Ernst, Candace Ernst (Amber), Michelle Voegele (Jimmy), Matthew Ernst, and Cameron Ernst (Victoria); eleven treasured great-grandchildren; and his sister, J. Louise Mark.
Eugene will be remembered for his steadfast faith, gentle humor, love of learning, and devotion to his family. His life was a testament to service, kindness, and quiet strength-a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew him.
Family and friends are invited to visit on Saturday, November 29th, 2025 from 10AM-11AM at Grace Lutheran Church, 2033 Graves Rd., Hockessin, DE 19707. A memorial service will begin at 11AM. Interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to Grace Lutheran Church, 2033 Graves Rd., Hockessin, DE 19707.
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