Oct. 11, 1916 -- Jan. 3, 2006

Julia M. Ernst, 89, of Mishawaka, passed away Tuesday morning, January 3, 2006, in her home.

Julia was born October 11, 1916, in Mishawaka, a daughter of the late Aloys and Mary (Roth) Liepold. She grew up in Mishawaka and graduated from Mishawaka High School. On May 31, 1947, Julia married Edward Ernst in St. Joseph Catholic Church. The couple made their home in Mishawaka where they raised their family. Julia was an old-fashioned homemaker and a loving wife, mother and grandmother. She was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church and the Rosary Society. Julia's family and faith were the most important parts of her life.

Julia's surviving family includes her husband of 58 years, Ed; six children, Charles (Sandy) Ernst of Osceola, Bernard Ernst of Mishawaka, Irene (Edward) Kelley of Montana, Michael Ernst of Mishawaka, Annette Ernst of Mishawaka and George Ernst of Mishawaka; a brother, Albert (Vera) Liepold of Florida; six grandchildren and one great-grandchild; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by two infants, Barbara and Elmer; and two brothers, Richard Liepold and Eugene "Bud" Liepold.

Friends may spend time with Julia's family on Friday from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. in Thallemer, Goethals & Wells Funeral Home, 503 West Third Street, Mishawaka, where the Rosary will be prayed at 4:30 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday at 10:30 a.m. in St. Joseph Catholic Church, 225 South Mill Street, Mishawaka, with Rev. Robert Yast officiating. Burial will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, Mishawaka.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to St. Joseph Church. Envelopes are available in the funeral home.