Ernest Larry Litchauer

Ernest Larry Litchauer

Ernest Larry Litchauer, 76, formerly of Lehighton, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 13, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

He retired from Roadway Express in Tannersville after 30 years and also worked part-time at Heckman's Orchards, Effort.

Born in Lehighton on April 14,1949, he was a son of the late Michael J. and Louella (Eichgasser) Litchauer.

He was a graduate of Lehighton Area High School and excelled in track and wrestling.

Following graduation, Ernie proudly served our country with the U.S. Air Force, and attained the rank of Staff Sergeant before his honorable discharge.

Ernie found great joy in spending time outdoors, whether he was hunting, fishing, gardening, landscaping or cutting down trees. He was skilled with a chainsaw and was dedicated to his projects and hobbies and loved to share with anyone who showed the slightest interest.

In his spare time, Ernie enjoyed reading, watching Jeopardy, Outdoor Channel, Hunting documentaries, NASCAR, baseball, and his favorite football team, the Dallas Cowboys.

Ernie was not only known for his strong work ethic, and witty sense of humor, but also for his generosity, warmth and outgoing personality. He could strike up a conversation with anyone. He never met a stranger, just a future friend. He regularly would check up on family and friends, always ensuring them that he was there to lend a helping hand. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

Above all, Ernie loved his family. He was a loving and supportive father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin and friend. His strength, kindness, guidance and steady presence left a lasting impact on his family. His greatest joy was spending time with them, and he never lost his childlike spirit whenever it came to connecting with his youngest grandson, Ryan. He loved watching him play sports and together they shared countless adventures and joyful moments, playing football, baseball, fishing and board games. It was always filled with laughter and love!

Surviving are his daughter, Wendy Drew (Robert); his grandson Ryan; a stepson, Kevin Matthews (Adriana) of Rancho Cucamonga, Ca.; stepgrandchildren, David Matthews (Jen), Joanna, Kevin Jr., and Kiana Matthews, Anthony and Faith Durham, Erin, Tiffany, and Krista Durham; his brothers, Michael Litchauer, Karl Litchauer (Helen) and Thomas Litchauer (Betty); sisters, Victoria Rhyder, Marlene Wallace and Carol Helfrich (Marvin); along with many nephews and nieces.

He was also predeceased by his parents, Michael J. and Louella Litchauer; sister, Linda Weaver; and stepchildren, Randy Durham and Gidget Durham.

He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter and unforgettable memories!

Service: A Celebration of Life gathering in his honor will be announced by the family in the future. The Ovsak Funeral Home, 190 S. Fourth St., Lehighton, is in charge of the arrangements. Sympathy cards can be sent to the family. If desired, a tree may be planted in his memory.