Ernie was preceded in death by his parents Archie Smith and Lillian Morris, and brother, Duane Colbath.
He will be lovingly missed by Kathy, his wife of 38 years; sons Ernie Lee (Sheryl) Smith; Frederick Donald Smith; and daughter, Amy J. (Earl) Stewart; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; siblings, Mike (Tammy) Cairns, Nellie (Kenneth) Rhode and Don (Elaine) Morris.
Ernie was born in 1932 in Kalkaska, Michigan, and became an avid hunter and fisherman. He loved country music, playing his guitar, harmonica and singing.
The family wishes to express special thanks to all the nurses and staff of Faith Hospice for their loving and compassionate care.
A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Wednesday, October 17, 2018 at Evergreen Bible Baptist Church in Kalkaska, Michigan. Burial is being planned in the Spring.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in memory of Ernie to Faith Hospice.
The family welcomes memories and messages in their guest book on line at www.cookcares.com.
