Lewis J. Ernst

Age 67

Lewis J. Ernst, 67, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at Lahey Hospital in Burlington, MA. For nearly 45 years, he was the devoted husband of Karen K. (Ings) Ernst - his partner in life and the love of his life. His passing has left a profound void in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Born on September 13, 1958, in Danvers, Lew was the son of the late Roger and Jeanne (Bowen) Ernst. He grew up in Tewksbury, and in 1983 he put down roots in Billerica, where he would spend his life building a family and community for them.

Above all else, Lew was a family man. His greatest joy was simply being with the people he loved. Lew loved just being with his wife Karen. Going shopping or planning projects and gatherings or sitting outside on the deck together, they just loved being by each other's side and supporting each other. He was her anchor, her love, her protector, friend and better half. He was truly a gift from god to her. Their beloved dogs throughout the years were never far from his side and were always excited to be with him. Over the years he and Karen opened their doors to many, hosting countless gatherings where friends and acquaintances came together and they always left feeling like family. No pool party of cookout was complete without Lew there. One of his favorite things to do was spend copious amounts of time with his 5-year-old granddaughter Winifred, who he adored and soaked up every minute with. Whether it was doing arts and crafts, swimming, riding on the lawnmower with, going out to eat, or simply snuggling they could always be seen having a great time together. He was such a devoted Papa to his granddaughter.

Lew was a man of quiet, steady character. When life brought adversity, Lew had a rare gift of bringing a calming presence that made everything feel manageable. Those closest to him knew that wherever he was, things were going to be all right. He also knew when to make light of a situation, and his sarcasm was unmatched - he had a gift for finding the humor in everyday life and could always get a good laugh out of the people around him.

Lew took immense pride in his homes; whether he was fixing, building, or improving something at home all the while he was also teaching his son the value of being to fix/build things in your own home. As a father, Lew provided a generous amount of volunteer time with the Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts during his son Jonathan's years as a scout, where he served as an Assistant Scoutmaster of his Troop. Over the years he led scouts on countless camping and hiking trips, helping to shape the lives of young men through experience, patience, and example. In addition to scouts, Lew just loved spending time with his son and cheering him on in whatever he was doing. Whether it was college, concrete canoe, or any other activity, he always wanted to create a strong, loving bond with his son - and he did just that. He provided guidance as a father and was never too busy to listen, talk, or help. His song for Jonathan was 'You've Got a Friend in Me,' which truly embodied how he felt about his son. Lew was so thankful that Jonathan found his wife Julie, who completed the family so well. He loved her dearly, as she brings so much joy to his son's life.

Lew spent his career in healthcare, beginning as an emergency room respiratory therapist and then moving on into medical supply. He worked across many organizations over the years, most recently with Wellspect Healthcare. To those he worked alongside, he was not just a colleague but a mentor and a friend, and his influence on the people around him extended well beyond any job title/description.

Lew lived the way he loved: fully, quietly, and with great heart. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, and remembered always for the laughs, warmth, love and compassion he brought to every part of his life.

Besides his wife Karen, Lew is survived by his son, Jonathan Ernst, his wife Julie and daughter Winifred of Lowell, MA. He is also survived by his sister Deborah Neville and her family of New Seabury, MA and his brother Butch Ernst and his family of Sandown, NH.

Visiting hours will be held Friday, February 27, 2026 at the SWEENEY MEMORIAL FUNERAL HOME, 66 Concord Rd., Billerica, MA from 4-7 p.m. A Funeral Service will be held Saturday at Grace Chapel, 59 Worthen Road, Lexington, MA. at 11 a.m. and then proceeding to the burial. Relatives, friends and colleagues respectfully are all invited. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association, 2451 Crystal Dr, Ste 900, Arlington, VA 22202. Burial in Fox Hill Cemetery, Billerica.