Merle Ernst was born April 1, 1931 to Lorne and Dolly Ernst on the family home quarter south of Plunkett. He was the second of three children, brother to Melvin and Lorraine. He attended Eltham School until grade 8 and boarded in Plunkett to attend high school. He enjoyed playing hockey and played trumpet in the Guernsey band. In 1962 he married the love of his life, Iris Hale, and they took over the family farm South of Plunkett, where the raised two children, Dale and Cindy. Merle was very active in the community by being a 4-H leader, Sask.Wheat Pool Committee member, NFU Member, Hockey Coach, Viscount Agricultural Municipal Committee and spearheaded the installation of natural gas in the South Plunkett area. Merle’s favorite time of year was the fishing season, both winter and summer. For approximately 40 years his fishing trip to Deschambault Lake with his fishing buddies was the highlight, but also enjoyed camping and fishing with family and friends. He especially enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren.
Merle was predeceased by his parents Lorne and Dolly and brother Melvin, two brother-in-laws, a sister-in-law, and mother and father-in-law. He is survived by his loving wife of almost 53 years, Iris, son Dale (Janice) Ernst and daughter Cindy (Lee) Hawkes. Grandchildren Meagan and Jenna Ernst, James, Logan and Colton Hawkes and sister Lorraine Scott.