Obituaries

Brian J. Ernst, 58

December 11, 1965 - July 10, 2024

It is through many tears that the family of Brian J. Ernst announce his unexpected passing on July 10, 2024, at the age of 58. He was born on December 11, 1965, in Wayne, New Jersey to Henry and Marian Ernst. He recently celebrated his 10th wedding anniversary with his devoted wife, Bonnie Ernst.

Some may recall instances of Brian’s struggles with alcoholism, but to remember Brian, many remember his gentle soul, his genuine sincerity, and his silly sense of humor. He was generous to a fault and would drop anything to help others, including volunteering time with Habitat for Humanity. He enjoyed tinkering around on his motorcycle, and spending time with his friends and family.

He will be sorely missed by his wife Bonnie, his brother Geoff Ernst, husband of Katie of Whippany, NJ, and stepchildren, Melissa Whitlock (Andrew) and Ethan Weaver (Steven St. Clair) all of Lancaster. Brian was preceded in passing by his parents and his siblings, Nancy Towner, Bill Ernst, and Chris Ernst.

Services will be announced at a later date.

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Condolences to the Family

August 26, 2024

Brian wasn’t someone I knew real well, nor did I spend a lot of time with him, but he is someone I always remembered because I could tell he was a good person and he was always so friendly.   I remember when he told me he was moving to CA at a get together with a bunch of the guys down at the Shore.   He was over the moon and was so excited about bringing his motorcycle out there and “starting over.”  Every now and then he would send me a note on Linked In asking how things were going and mention how much he liked it out in California (San Diego I think). 
I just heard from a mutual friend he was gone.  He passed away too young.
Rest in peace, Brian. You may be gone, but you’re not forgotten.     
Matt Brown

July 18, 2024

A tough loss to accept.  One of the warmest and most welcoming guys, I’ve ever met.  Thankful that he found you, Bonnie.  It was easy to see how happy you both were together.  Very sorry for your loss.
Danny Nole

July 17, 2024

For the longest time I lived, worked, and hung out with this man and never tired of him.  There is no one else in my life I can say that about.  I’ll never forget when he bought his first motorcycle.  You are an awesome friend Ernst man, I’m going to miss you.
BG

July 16, 2024

if you knew Brian, you loved him and he gave it back to you 100 fold.  The guy always had a smile on face and you could be in the worst of moods and he could turn you around in a second. Thank you for the years of friendship pal, you will be missed by all that were lucky enough to know you. 

July 15, 2024

My deepest sympathy to you and your family. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. May God bless you and be with you during this very difficult time.
 
Mary Ann Tragesser

July 14, 2024

Dear Bonnie and Family of Brian-
We are so sorry for your loss.
We came to know Brian and Bonnie years ago living in the same apartment complex in San Diego. We were lucky to have gotten to know them both and over our time together in Crown Point and found them to be warm and inviting.
Brian always had a smile for everyone and always brought life to any get together!
We will always remember Brian in these happy memories and wish Bonnie and family peace during this hard time.
 
with condolences and love,
The Tocco Family

July 14, 2024

I am sad to hear about Brian’s passing. I am truly sorry for your loss. I have some terrific memories of Ernie as a room mate. He will be missed, but remembered fondly.
Mike McCann

July 14, 2024

Oh Bonnie,
I am so sorry for your loss. Please accept my sincere condolences. Holding you up in prayer. 
Sincerely,
Bonnie Schmitt

July 14, 2024

Dear Bonnie and family,
There aren’t any words that will touch the hurt you are all sharing but please know how close you are being held in my heart and prayers. This is such sad news but I know that he memories you all made together will sustain you in the times to come.  God Bless and keep you. 
Kimberly Gush

July 14, 2024

Hey Brian…I’m pretty sure Heaven has a motorcycle for you to ride …Please stop and visit and make us laugh …I can’t say I ll miss you but my tears betray me . My heartfelt condolences to your family and friends . Pierre

July 14, 2024

Thinking of you and sending love and a hug. Praying God will comfort you during this difficult time. 
Nora

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