He was born on January 09, 1933 in Peoria to Ernst and Myrtle (Hall) Kellerstrass. He married Barbara Thomason on October 10, 1954 and she survives. Also surviving are their children, Mona (John) Kasper, Melinda Kellerstrass, Marla (Greg) Koerner, John (Kris) Kellerstrass and Douglas (Christina) Kellerstrass; 8 grandchildren; and 1 great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his parents; and 2 brothers.
Ernst was commissioned into the Air Force in 1954 as a 2nd Lt. and retired as Lt. Col. in 1979. He was extremely proud of his military service to his country. After his retirement he was employed as a Civil Engineer. He enjoyed gardening, fishing and family.
Private funeral services will be held at 11AM on Tuesday, March 23, 2021 at Christ Lutheran Church with Pastor Anthony Oliphant officiating. Burial will follow at Lutheran Cemetery. Friends are invited to the graveside service where masks are requested to be worn.
Memorials may be made to Unity Hospice of Chicago, or to Redeemer Lutheran Church of Elmhurst. Davison-Fulton Bartonville Chapel is in charge of arrangements.