Ernest attended Hutchinson High School, Hutchinson, KS, where he graduated in 1960. After high-school, he attended Hutchinson Junior College, where he obtained an associates degree in arts; along with one semester at Pittsburg State University where he was on a football scholarship.
Ernest met the love of his life in January of 1964, Jolene Taylor, while at the Roller City Skating Rink in Hutchinson, KS. Their first date took place on March 8, 1964, then the two were married on October 25, 1964 at the First Christian Church Chapel in Hutchinson, KS.
Ernest worked for Fleming Foods for 22 years before they closed the Wichita division. He retired from Cessna Aircraft in 2009 after 18 years of employment.
Ernest was a family man. He enjoyed family gatherings and in his free time, he enjoyed boating, square dancing, skiing, camping, traveling, World War II history, and painting. Ernest was a huge pet lover, which he passed on to his children and grandchildren. In his later years, he loved to read his Bible, attending church and Bible studies.
He was preceded in death by: his parents, Ernest and Ruby; along with his sister, Deanna Riney.
He is survived by: his wife of 59 years, Jolene; his son, Shaun (Karla) Watkins of Valley Center, Kansas; his daughter, Krissi Thompson of Valley Center, Kansas; along with 7 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren; along with 3 more on the way.
Celebration of Life Service will be held 2:00 P.M. on Friday, October 25, 2024, at Riverlawn Christian Church, 4243 N. Meridian Avenue, Wichita, Kansas 67204.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established with: Kansas Humane Society, 3313 N. Hillside Street, Wichita, Kansas 67219 or Riverlawn Christian Church, 4243 N. Meridian Street, Wichita, Kansas 67204.
