Mr. Ernest Frank Brose

Ernest Frank Brose

1923 - 2013

Kenora's Mr. Music

It is with much sorrow that we announce the passing of Ernest F. Brose. Ernie was born in Pembroke, Ont. and was the youngest of four children. He was predeceased by his father John, his mother Matilda and two sisters, Rachael (Roy) Wegner and Esther Brose. He is survived by his brother Harold (Leona), his wife Beth and five children; John (Madeline), Timothy (Heather), James (Karen), Mark and Janice, seven grandchildren, one great granddaughter and many nieces and nephews.

Ernie graduated from Waterloo University with a B.A. and came to Kenora Lakewood High School as a young man to teach.

He had intended to work his way back east but married Beth (Swanson), had a family and became involved locally and happily stayed in Kenora. He often expressed gratitude that his family is musical and was very proud of their talents. Ernie loved teaching and expressed keen enthusiasm throughout his career.

Ernie was a talented pianist as a child and would accompany his father who was an accomplished fiddler. They would perform together throughout the Ottawa Valley at weddings and parties. Growing up, he was in charge of the music program at Camp Lutherlyn until he attended University. He sometimes played the pipe organ at his home church in Pembroke. He also played the piano, organ, and accordian by ear and to perfection.

Ernie had many hobbies and interests including hunting, fishing, bird watching, gardening, carpentry, wood carving, oil painting and farming. He and Beth organized the commercial fishermen's organization, NORCOM, and in one election he ran as a candidate for the provincial N.D.P. As a teacher Ernie taught English, Mathematics and Music. He is most remembered for his contributions to music in Kenora. He was skilled in arranging musical selections directing the school choir and band, leading a barbershop chorus, many quartettes, the Music Men choir and Lutheran Brotherhood Chorus. He also sang in and directed the Lutheran Church choir for many years. Through the school music club, under his direction, the students performed in many excellent shows including Gilbert & Sullivan favorites. To celebrate Canada's 1967 centennial year, Ernie composed the words and music to the original operetta "The Hole Smoke" which was performed by the school music club with great success!

When Ernie retired in 1981, he and Beth decided it was time to travel and over the next number of years travelled to Arizona, California, Texas, Mississippi and Florida. They especially liked Galveston TX and returned many times. He and Beth joined a church choir in Galveston and established good friendships there. Each fall they travelled to Southern Ontario and spent Thanksgiving with three of their sons and their families in both Toronto and Kitchener - Waterloo. One of their most memorable trips was to Beijing, China where they had a wonderful time.

The family wishes to thank the excellent staff at Pinecrest Nursing Home for their care, compassion and friendship. Many individuals were notable but we must especially mention Nancy Wells, a personal friend who was caring.

A Celebration of Ernie's life will be held on Friday, March 22, 2013 at Knox United Church at 2 p.m. A reception will follow.

Donations in his memory may be made to the church or charity of your choice.

"THROUGH THE YEARS WE'LL SEE YOU IN THE SWEET AFTERGLOW"

Online condolences may be made at brownfuneralhomekenora.com

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