Ernest D. Abken, 88, of Whiting, passed away on Monday, March 19, 2012, at home. Born in Seghorn Germany, he came to the U.S. in 1929 and was a graduate of Westfield High School. Ernest lived in Warren and Brick for over 30 years before moving to Crestwood Manor in 2011. In the early 1950's, he started Reliable Heating and Air Conditioning and later owned and operated Will-Rich Air Control until retiring in 1990. Ernest was a life member and trustee of Watchung Hills Elks Lodge 2252; a member of the Old Guard of Brick; and served as a recruit in the U.S. Army. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening, travelling and he had a passion for History.
He was predeceased by his parents, Johann F. and Sophie K. Abken; and his beloved wife, Wilma, in 1995. Surviving are his loving children, Erich W. Abken and his wife Jody of Brick, Linda C. Ricany and her husband Joseph of Beachwood, and Laura E. Holmes of Smyrna, DE; his grandchildren, John, Erica, Elizabeth, Jessica, Andrew, Patricia and Jennifer; and his cherished great-granddaughters, Hailey, Allison and Callie.
Visitation will be held from 5 to 9 p.m. Thursday, March 22, 2012 at Anderson and Campbell Funeral Home, 703 Main St., Toms River. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, March 23 at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Ocean County Memorial Park in Toms River. If you should desire, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society in Ernest's name. Condolences may be made by visiting www.andersonandcampbell.com.
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