Ernest BRIESE

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BRIESE: It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, brother, cherished uncle and dear friend, Ernest Charles Briese. Ernie passed away February 15, 2013 at Minnedosa Hospital, at the age of 87. Ernie is survived by his wife of 63 years Audrey, son Robert and daughter Lois. Ernie was predeceased by a son James in 2002, sisters Elizabeth Manderson and Marguerite Baker, and brother Lloyd Briese. He will be sadly missed by sisters Lillian Sangster and Laverne (Amie) Decock, and sister-in- law Ila McNabb. Also left to cherish his memory are many nephews and nieces whose lives he touched with his love, kindness and generosity. Ernie was born July 6, 1925 to parents Julius and Rose Briese, and grew up on the family farm in the Dumfries district near Neepawa. He attended Dumfries school, then went to High School in Neepawa. While there he worked out for neighboring farmers and at the Neepawa Hospital doing chores, and was a member of the Neepawa Air Cadets. Ernie enlisted in the R.C.A.F. and graduated as Air Gunner just as the war ended. Following discharge he drove a taxi until he was hired by Anglo Canadian Oils in Neepawa where he became a manager in 1948. Ernie married Audrey (Chisholm) in 1946 and they lived in Neepawa until his transfer to Birtle in 1958. He opened the branch in Birtle and they remained there until 1964 when they purchased a half section of land near Minnedosa. It was a wonderful place to live and Ernie returned to work for Gulf Oil until he retired in 1980. He loved to visit with the farmers when he delivered their oil. Ernie enjoyed the country life, tending their large garden, making yard decorations out of scraps, chopping wood, and helping nephews on their farms during seeding and harvest. While in Neepawa, Ernie joined the Royal Canadian Legion and the Oddfellows Lodge As a member of the Junior Chamber of Commerce he helped to construct the first street signs in Neepawa. Ernie and Audrey traveled to many destinations in Canada and U.S.A. and happy times were spent on the road in their travel van. In 2000, after 37 years on the farm, they moved into Minnedosa. There Ernie continued with his favorite pastimes, chopping wood for the stove, playing cribbage and listening to old time music. His sense of humor and cheery nature was enjoyed by all who knew him.Through our sadness we find solaceThat your weary heart is now at restCherished memories will keep you closeIn the hearts of us, whose lives you blessed.In compliance with Ernie’s wishes, no funeral or memorial service will be held. Interment will take place at Neepawa Riverside Cemetery at a later date. Minnedosa Funeral Services is in charge of the arrangements. Those wishing to can make a donation in Ernie’s memory to Neepawa Beautiful Plains Foundation, Minnedosa Foundation, or any charity of choice. The family would like to express their thanks to the staff of Minnedosa Hospital for their care, and to friends and relatives for their kindness during Ernie’s illness.

As published in Brandon Sun on Feb 16, 2013