John L. Ernest, 84, of Dumont, NJ, died peacefully on April 4, 2023 with his family at his side. Beloved husband of Loretta (née Brennan). Loving father of John L. (Laura) Ernest, Sharon (James) Mullins, Stephen Ernest, Mandy (Christopher) Galati, Charles (Barbara) Ernest and Madeleine Ernest. Cherished grandfather of Michelle (Ryan) Magee, Jessica, Samantha, Alexis, CJ, Elizabeth and Lewis, and great-grandfather of Violet Magee. Dear brother of Lorraine (Ernie) Wunder, Thomas (Lena) Ernest and Paula (Thomas) Gibb. Predeceased by his brother Lawrence Ernest.
John was born in Jersey City to Marion (née Gigante) and Emil Ernest. He was a sheet metal worker with Local #28, New York City, and a proud Navy veteran. John was a member of the American Legion Post #129, Toms River. John’s greatest joy came from spending time with family and loved ones at home and down the shore. He was also a passionate handball player and fisherman.
A celebration of John’s life will take place on Friday, April 7th, 4-8 PM at the Frech-McKnight Funeral Home, 161 Washington Avenue, Dumont. A Prayer Service will be held at 5:30 PM and Military Honors at 7:30 PM. Cremation is private.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made in John’s memory to one of the following charities:
Spectrum for Living, 210 River Vale Road, #3, River Vale, NJ 07675; www.spectrumforliving.org.
Disabled American Veterans, 522 Paulson Avenue, Passaic, NJ 07055; https://davnj.org.
Ramapo-Bergen Animal Refuge, Inc., 2 Shelter Lane, Oakland, NJ 07436; https://rbari.org/