Ernest Wesley Gaffner

Williamston, Michigan

Ernest (Ernie) W. Gaffner, a lifelong resident of Williamston, was born on January 30, 1940 to Wesley C. and Wanita Rose (Banning) Gaffner and passed away, December 23, 2015 at the age of 75.

Ernie was well-known and was a leading figure in the community. He worked as an Independent Insurance Agent for Al Bourdeau Insurance and was the Williamstown Township Clerk. Ernie’s seat on the Williamston Community School Board of Education since 1981 is one of the longest served terms in the State of Michigan.

He was a dedicated and faithful member of Red Cedar Church; Ernie lived his life serving God and helping others. His hobbies included a love for hunting and fishing, photography, spending time with family and friends, being with his grandchildren, and MSU athletics. Ernie worked at Spartan Stadium for nearly 40 years, most recently as the tunnel supervisor.

He was preceded in death by his parents; Wesley and Wanita Gaffner.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Marjie, and their children Todd (Deb) Gaffner of Hudsonville, MI, Scott (Loretta) Gaffner of Williamston, MI and Wendy (Justin) Lippe of Williamston, MI and their ten grandchildren: Hope, Jena, Griffin, Hannah, Ethan, Caleb, Owen, Michael, Annie and James. Also surviving are his siblings: Janeen (Tom) Keyes of Williamston, MI, David (Marlene) Gaffner of Cedarville, OH.

Visitation will be Monday, December 28 from 5pm-8pm at Red Cedar Evangelical Free Church, 550 W. Grand River, Okemos, MI and one hour prior to the funeral service at the High School.

Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, December 29, 2015 at 11am at the McGoff Performing Arts Center, Williamston High School, 3939 Vanneter Rd, Williamston, MI.

Interment will be at Summit Cemetery and a celebration meal at Red Cedar Church will follow.

For those desiring, contributions may be made to Red Cedar Church Missions Funds, 550 W. Grand River, Okemos, MI 48864 or Good

on of Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, Williamston, MI.