Ernest L. Tsoules

Ernest L. Tsoules, 92, of Southbridge, died June 22, 2008, in the Chester County Hospital, West Chester, Pennsylvania, after a short illness. His loving wife of 46 years, Mary (Healey) Tsoules, died in 1998.

Ernie leaves his two sons, Greg Tsoules of Glen, NH and his two children, Nikos and Hope, and Ernie Tsoules, Jr. of West Chester, PA and his wife Diane and two children, Andrew and Mary. He is also survived by his sister, Sophia Sygrios. He was predeceased by his two sisters, Olga Pantos and Eva Contis; his brother, Peter Tsoules and his parents, Elias and Madeline Tsoules.

Ernie was born on February 9, 1916 in Finiki, Greece and came to Southbridge, through Ellis Island at the age of 4. He operated the Balkan Baking Company with his father and worked as a baker, chauffeur and custodian at Charlton Street School.

Ernie was a veteran of the U.S. Navy, 58th Construction Battalion, known as the "Seabees". He served his country valiantly during World War II in the South Pacific as a Baker Second Class, and was awarded the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Ribbon with two stars for his service during the battles at Vella LaVella and the Admiralty Islands.

Ernie's life in Southbridge was marked by devotion to his family and his friendship and kindness to people from all walks of life, whether it was his daily visits to the library, the tailor shop or lunch or dinner with friends. He loved being around people and others loved his company, humor and kindness.

His funeral Mass will be held Monday, June 30, 2008 at 10:00 AM at St. Mary's Church, 263 Hamilton Street, Southbridge, with burial to follow at the Oak Ridge Cemetery. There are no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ernie's memory to the Jacob Edwards Public Library, 236 Main Street, Southbridge, MA 01550.

www.morrillfuneralhome.com