David Lee Ernst

David Lee Ernst was born on December 13, 1946 to Wilmar and Violet (Nielsen) Ernst in Paso Robles, CA. The first of five children born to this devout farmer and his homemaker wife, David was a natural born leader. He loved growing up in the wide open spaces of the country and fishing, hunting and camping were early passions that continued throughout his life.

David attended Paso Robles High School where he participated in a variety of athletics, most notably cross-country and track. He graduated in 1965 and briefly attended college but was drafted into the Vietnam War where he served in the U.S. Army. Noticed by his superiors for his outstanding navigational skills on land navigation exercises, he was sent to school to become a non-commissioned officer. His service came to an end when his group tripped land mines in a rice paddy. David was treated in the hospital and given an honorable discharge and a purple heart. He had shrapnel in his leg for the rest of his life.

David returned to classes at California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo, CA. Here is where he expanded his love of motorcycles to moto-cross racing with trophies to prove it. He graduated in 1972 with a B.S. in engineering technology. He took his first job with a company in his hometown. Not satisfied, he was soon pursuing his MBA with the goal of becoming an engineering manager.

In 1976, about 1 year before he completed the 3 year MBA program, he started taking notice of a young lady in his hometown congregation. In March they had their first date. In April they got engaged. On September 5, 1976, David and Claudia Noel Newsome were married at Trinity Lutheran Church in Paso Robles by David’s uncle the Rev. George Steinbeck.

David completed his MBA in June of 1977 and he was off and running. David worked for a number of companies in a number of locales over the course of his career: CTS Keene (electronics) Paso Robles, CA; Husky Bush Hog / Continental Gin (cotton) Fresno, CA; Cal Pro / TTX Rail (railcars) Riverside, CA; Harry & David / Bear Creek Corporation (fruit and gifts) Medford, OR; Diamond Cabinets (DIY cabinets) Grants Pass, OR; and James River Corp (paper and packaging) Portland, OR. JRC morphed through several transitions in the almost 21 years David worked there, finally ending up in Graphic Packaging International Inc. This last job was also a career change. Here he served as the manager of environmental regulations compliance.

David retired July 31, 2013, and had 14 months to enjoy his well earned rest. On October 29, 2014 he started his walk home to be with the Lord. On January 15, 2015 he arrived. His heart had failed him for the last time.

David was a well beloved son, brother, husband, father and friend. He was a faithful Christ-follower who was eager to attend church and Bible class every Sunday, as well as serve. Over the years and in many churches he served most often as congregational president. He also served on a variety of boards, taught confirmation classes, led youth groups and in recent years served on the property board. He leaves a big hole and is missed by many.

David was preceded in death by his father and mother and one cousin. He leaves behind his loving, devoted wife of 38 years; son Matthew Ernst of Richland, WA; daughter Julie Ernst of Portland, OR; brothers Fred Ernst of Riverside, CA and Paul Ernst of Paso Robles, CA; sisters Kathy Dooley (Jim) of Federal Way, WA and Carol Ernst of Cheverly, MD. He is also survived by 11 nieces and nephews and 21 grand nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at 3:00pm on Saturday, January 31, 2015 at Ascension Lutheran Church, 1440 SE 182nd Avenue, Portland, OR 97233. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in his memory to the Ascension Lutheran Church Building Fund.