Ernest 'Ernie' Henry Unruh

It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of Ernest (Ernie) Unruh. Ernie lost his battle to a very aggressive cancer and passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on Saturday October 19, 2024.

Ernie was an amazing husband, father, grandfather and brother who walked his faith with integrity and compassion. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Joyce; stepson, Bill and stepdaughter, Barb (Gerry). He was a much loved grandfather to Tanner (Lizzie) and Cole (Taylor); Aidan (Kiesha) and Dylan (Paige); along with their mother Brandy (Andy); and Gerry Jr.

Cherished siblings Hertha (Irwin), Elfreda (Peter), Clara, Harold (Gerri), Florence (Ken), Viola (Paul), Laura (Ajay) and Shirley.

He was predeceased by family members held dearly, stepson John (2024), brother-in-law George, and parents Agatha and Henry Unruh.

As a young man, Ernie studied diligently and graduated with honors from Vauxhall High School, Bethany Bible School, Tabor College, University of Wichita and the University of Calgary. Ernie moved to Lesotho to teach with MCC and traveled extensively throughout Europe.

Ernie then ventured back to university to become a professional engineer. He worked for Legrand Industries specializing in pump jacks for the oilfields. This is where he met the love of his life Joyce. After the closing of Legrand Industries, Ernie worked for Canada Revenue Call Centre before retiring. Ernie had a real love for technology.

Through their years together Ernie and Joyce maintained an open door policy hosting many family and friends. They enjoyed traveling, camping and gardening and just spending time together. Their grandchildren played very important roles in their life. Both were active members at Highland Church where Ernie would sing and speak.

In the week before he passed he told Joyce that she had taught him to love, live and laugh.

Thank you to all our friends and family who either came to visit or sent their well wishes to him during the short difficult days prior to his passing.

Thank you to Dr. Wu, the emergency and acute care doctor’s, nurses and staff at the Didsbury Hospital who made Ernie’s very short stay comfortable.

A service and reception will be held at Zion Evangelical Missionary Church in Didsbury on November 8, 2024 (Ernie’s Birthday) at 2:00 pm.

LIve Stream Link:  https://vimeo.com/event/4678846