With deep sadness in our hearts, but also with firm faith in God’s providence, grace, and love we announce that our beloved husband, father, and relative Ernest Henry Henninger, age 78, peacefully passed into eternity on January 11, 2025 at his home in Virginia Beach, Virginia.
Ernest was born on December 29, 1946 in Denver, Colorado to Lela Grace and Ernest Henninger. He graduated from Golden High School and then obtained his Bachelor’s degree Cum Laude in Mathematics and Physics at the University of Colorado in June of 1968. He joined the US Navy and completed his MS in Mathematics in June of 1969 at Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California. He also studied at the Navy Supply Corps School in Athens, Georgia and graduated in December of 1969.
Ernest was on active duty with the US Navy for six years and then transferred to the US Navy Reserves (1974 to 1994) and completed almost 25 years of military service. In August of 1974, he went to work for the US Federal government as a GS13 Computer Analyst at Navy Management Systems Support Office (NAVMASSO) and later Naval Warfare Systems Command (SPAWAR), where he was the technical leader and expert in software development. He was a true mission driven individual who approached challenges with extraordinary energy. Ernie cared deeply for those around him and was a mentor to many.
Ernest was a true follower of Jesus Christ and his faith reflected in everything he did. He loved the Lord with all his heart and served Him in several ministries at First Baptist Church of Norfolk- missions (local and international), visitation, Sunday school, and Vacation Bible School.
Ernest met his wife Veska at FBCN and after their marriage in 1992 they have been happily living together for more than 32 years in Virginia Beach. He was a devoted husband and father to their two daughters - Evangeline and Joy.
Ernest was predeceased by his mother Lela and step-father Frank Caron; and sisters, Phyllis Hansen and Grace Henninger.
Left to cherish his memory are wife, Veska Henninger; daughters, Evangeline and Joy Henninger; brother and sister-in-law, Jack and Pam Henninger; nephew, Phillip Hansen and wife Dina with their children; niece, LeAnn Hansen-Chance with husband Ed Chance; and many relatives and friends in Colorado and Virginia.
Ernest’s selfless life and devotion to God will always be an example to respect and follow by those who knew him.
Rest in peace!
