Ernest V. Plank

Ernest V. Plank, age 89, passed away peacefully on March 1, 2015 at Emeritus at Pinnacle. He was born January 29, 1926 in Columbus, Ohio to the late Carl and Lucille (Storer) Plank; also preceded in death by his beloved wife Virginia in 2007. He is survived by his son, James M. (Jane Hutsen) Plank of Jacksonville, FL; daughter, Victoria (William F. Jr.) Van Senus of Valparaiso, IN; grandchildren James V. Plank, Katherine J. Plank, William III (DeAnna) Van Senus and Bradley Van Senus. Ernie graduated from, and is honored in, the Sports Halls of Fame, at Bexley High School as well as Miami University. He played basketball and football at The Ohio State University in 1943 at which time he was drafted into the Navy. He was immediately commissioned to the Navy football team at Great Lakes Naval Station, where he was a defensive end and kicker under Paul Brown's leadership. While at Miami of Ohio, he was the captain of the football team in 1949. He went on to coach at Grove City High School (1950-1955) and was assistant coach at Miami of Ohio (1956-1962), Yale University (1963-1964), Indiana University (1965-1972; 1967 season Rose Bowl); Northwestern University (1973-1978). From 1979 on, he served as a scout for the Browns, the Ravens and the 49er's where he was part of the staff that won 4 Super Bowls. Ernie was honored to have played for coaches George Blackburn, Woody Hayes, Sid Gillman and Paul Brown and be a part of the staffs of John Pont (college) and Bill Walsh (pros). Throughout his life's travels, Grove City and Grove City High School, where he was an honorary member of the class of '54, remained "home". While he was an accomplished professional, he will be most remembered as a wonderful father and grandfather. Private family interment will be held at Grove City Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Grove City Little League (Miracle Field), Jack Widner, Treas., 4287 Broadway, Grove City, OH 43123 or to Miami University, 725 E. Chestnut St., Oxford, OH 45056 in memory of Ernest V. Plank. Services entrusted to Schoedinger Grove City Chapel. Please visit www.schoedinger.com to share memories or extend condolences.