Ernest Leroy Hartung
Ernest Leroy Hartung, 83, of Bourbon, Missouri, affectionately known as Ernie by friends and family, passed away peacefully late Tuesday, September 24, 2024, at Mercy Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri. Born on October 27, 1940, in Mt. Clemens, Michigan, to Willard “Jess” and Oma (Richardson) Hartung. Ernie was a man whose warmth and generosity touched the lives of many throughout his lifetime.
Ernie was a proud graduate of Bourbon High School, Class of 1958, and shortly thereafter, in 1959, he married Irene Sheldon. Their loving partnership brought two sons into the world, Ron and Dan. After a period in Desoto, Missouri, Ernie and his family settled in Bourbon, where he worked for his father at Bourbon Redi-Mix. His career path led him to the Pea Ridge Mine and later to Ramsey Corporation as a machinist. When Ramsay's closed its doors, Ernie continued his trade with Industrial Wire Products until his well-deserved retirement in 2006.
Love struck again for Ernie when he married Angelia "Robin" Orick on July 10, 1982, and together they welcomed two daughters, Amanda and Miryha, into their hearts. This union also blessed Ernie with two stepchildren, Rick and Becky, whom he cherished as his own. Known for his open heart and home, Ernie became a regional icon as "Uncle Ernie," a testament to his ability to form endearing relationships with people across all walks of life.
Ernie's spirit and personality were shone when his nephews, Jayce and Brian, decided to open "Uncle Ernie's" eating establishment. The restaurant became a beloved community spot, famous for the "Ernie burger". Ernie was known for making “frequent” visits where he enjoyed seeing his friends and family. His kind and friendly nature made him a friend to all, and his interesting life stories kept many entertained for hours on end.
A man of the outdoors, Ernie loved hunting, fishing, and the simple pleasure of cutting wood. He found joy in life's little gambles, often playing the lottery and Keno with a hopeful heart. His green thumb was evident in his well-tended garden, where he took special pride in his tomatoes and cucumbers.
A place belonging to the Hartung family, affectionately known as the "Party House," was the hub of many cherished memories with family and friends. It was a place where laughter echoed, stories were shared, and the doors were always open. Those who knew Ernie will remember his infectious smile, his willingness to lend a hand, and his uncanny ability to make everyone feel like family.
Ernie's legacy is one of love, kindness, and friendship. He leaves behind a community that is richer for his presence and a family that will carry his memory forward with each passing day.
Ernie is survived by his wife, Angelia Hartung; his children: Ron Hartung of Bourbon, Dan Hartung and wife, Toshiko of Dallas, TX, Amanda Graddy and husband Andrew, of Leasburg, MO, Miryha “Pete” Tackett and fiancé, Bill Kelley of Bourbon, and Becky Richardson of Orlando, FL; 10 grandchildren: Jesse, Jacob, Jordon, Cole, Lexi, Jackson, Miley, Gunner, Pierce & Emerson Leroy; a brother, Paul Hartung and wife, Judy of Warrenton, MO; a sister-in-law, Ruth Hartung of Sullivan, MO; and numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Jess and Oma Hartung; his siblings: Willard Hartung and wife, Barb, Martin Hartung, Fred Hartung and Joan Summers and husband, Bob; and a stepson, Rick Richardson Jr.
Services will be 1:00 PM, Monday, September 30, 2024, at the Eaton Funeral Home in Sullivan with Pastor Dan Morrison officiating.
Visitation will be 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, Monday, September 30, 2024, at the Eaton Funeral Home prior to the service.
Memorials may be given in Ernie’s memory to Shriners Children’s St. Louis.
Friends may share condolences online with Ernie’s family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements are under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Sullivan, MO.