Ernest J. Wiese Jr.

He was born September 14, 1938 in Preston, the son of the late Ernest and Virginia Wiese. He was raised in Preston, CT.

Ernie served in the Marine Reserves. He was extremely patriotic and loved the USA. He always needed to have a raised flag in his yard and encouraged buying of USA products. He drove Ford trucks and his favorite red Ford. He married Carole Gagnon in 1959 and they had 5 children together.

Ernie loved his work. He did not work to live, he lived to work and believed that if you loved your work then you never worked a day in your life. He was sole owner and operator of Ernie's Crane Service in the 1960s. He owned and operated his business until the day he died. He was involved in multiple large construction and demolition projects and made a huge impact in South Eastern Connecticut specifically in Norwich. He was a true legend to the city of Norwich. He was known for being a strong and true man who didn't need to live by contracts as his word and handshake was a contract. Some projects that he was involved in included demolition of multiple commercial, industrial and residential buildings in Norwich and the Tri State area. He always recycled product to build new structures. He was involved in the construction of the Preston Incinerator and the Mohegan Pequot Bridge. He built a home for his family in Poquetanuck. He was a talented woodworker and all around handy resourceful man. He operated a crane before the crane operator license was required. At one point in his career he would sign off new operators on their proficiency testing.

Ernie was a member of the Poquetanuck Fire Department in the 1960's and 1970's. His hobbies included constructing ponds for others and himself, clearing land, creating structures from recycled product, caring for animals, helping friends in need anywhere, any time and sharing stories and listening to stories. 'Ernie had a love for music. In his early days, he would sing country western and play guitar. As he aged he learned to play the banjo and played at gatherings, the Watering Hole and practicing weekly with his dear friend Lenny. He had many trucks and easily shared his knowledge with others. He often did phone consultations, driving to job sites, all to share his expertise at no charge.

Ernie is survived by his children, John Ernest Wiese, Todd Joseph Wiese, Lori Lee Grillo and her husband Kevin, Mel Allyn Wiese and his wife Michelle, Lisa Marie Orowson and her husband Brian; his sister Catherine Fish and her husband Ed, and by his sister Gina Murphy. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Amy Lee, Jamie, John, Kristina, Kathryn, Chaz, Cayla, Larsen, Natalia, Garisen, and Trinity and by his great grandchildren Aurora, Chase, Jacob and Cole and by many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Virginia and Ernest Wiese, Ernie was predeceased by his brother Leonard Wiese and great granddaughter Pearl.

The funeral will assemble at 8:30 am on Saturday, October 24, at the Church and Allen Funeral Home, 136 Sachem St. in Norwich and will proceed to an 10 am Mass of Christian Burial at the Cathedral of St. Patrick in Norwich. Burial will follow at the Poquetanuck Cemetery in Preston.

Please visit www.churchandallen.com to leave an online tribute or condolence.