Earl Jacob Ernst, 90, of Sioux City, passed away Friday, December 4, 2015 at a local hospital. Per his wishes his body has been cremated. There will be a memorial service at 11:00 am on Saturday, December 19, 2015 at Waterbury Funeral Service of Sioux City, 4125 Orleans Ave. Burial will be at a later date.

Earl Jacob Ernst was born October 2, 1925 in Creighton, Nebraska, the son of Henry and Udora (West) Ernst.

Earl joined the United States Navy on December 22, 1943 and served on the USS Killen. He was honorably discharged on February 8, 1946. He married Beverly Robbins on March 22, 1951 in South Sioux City, Nebraska.

Earl worked at Concrete Pipe and Windcharger for many years as a machinist. He later worked as a meat cutter for Needhams and Iowa Pork.

Earl enjoyed going dancing and playing cards with Beverly. He also enjoyed going camping, fishing, and spending the weekends with all their friends at the Little Sioux Campground. He loved spending time with his grandkids and taking them to his secret fishing holes.

He is survived by 3 sons: Terry (Joan) Ernst of Peachtree City, GA; Gail (Joni) Ernst of Red Oak, IA; and Monty (Kim) Ernst of Sioux City; 7 grandchildren Ami Ernst; Tony (Blake) Ernst; Regina (Michael Jenkins) Ernst; Jennifer (John) Medina; Elizabeth Ernst; Andrew (Maggie Holden) Ernst; and Nathan (Ali) Ernst; and 11 great grandchildren.

Earl was preceded in death by his parents, wife Beverly, and all of his siblings.