Donald W. Ernst, born August 3, 1935, passed away January 27, 2026, at the age of 90.
He was a resident of Arnold. Don was employed at J & J Window Sales for 68 years.
He is survived by his wife, Beverly; three children, Kenneth Ernst, Kevin (Deborah) Ernst, and Sandra (David) Shapiro; three stepchildren, Mike (Karen) Dvorsky, Mark (Cindy Alvarez) Dvorsky, and Teresa (Anson) Johnson; nineteen grandchildren; and twenty-six great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Anna (Zoellner) Ernst; five brothers; and one sister. Two brothers survive.
Don flew his private plane and also gave flying lessons. He and Beverly spent many hours flying over rural areas, landing on family farm fields and giving family members flights over the countryside.
He also loved to golf. Don and Beverly owned a farm near Mexico, where they spent many weekends enjoying nature. He was raised on a farm near Perryville.
Don will be greatly missed by the many who knew him. His family will miss his laugh and his many jokes.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at heiligtagfuneralhome.com.
