Ernest Gerstenberger

Ernest Gerstenberger of Caro, age 77, passed away on Thursday, December 17, 2020 at McLaren - Bay Region in Bay City. Ernie was born March 31, 1943 in Sandusky, the son of the late Earl & Martha (Guigar) Gerstenberger. He was employed with Snover Stamping at the age of eighteen years and retired from Deckerville Dye Form in 2006. Ernie also farmed all his life. After dating for eight years, he was united in marriage with the former Lillian Welch on February 14, 1998 in Caro. Ernie enjoyed hunting, fishing, loved tractors and old engine shows, and spending time doing those activities with his youngest grandson, Chad Szcygiel. Ernie is survived by his loving wife, Lillian Gerstenberger of Caro; children and spouses, Brad Gerstenberger of Marlette, Brenda (Scott) Harneck of Hemans, Debbie (Paul) Franks of Attica, Penny Welch of Caro, Teresa Zechmeister of Caro, Patty Welch (Joey Szcygiel) of Caro, Ronda (Dave) Holzworth of North Carolina, David (Cathy) Welch of Bay City; siblings, John Earl (Kay) Gerstenberger of Sandusky, Margaret Ann Jacques of Snover, Carolyn Marie Smith of Sandusky, Emily Martha (Bob) Metevia of Ovid; and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Ernie was preceded in death by two sons, Greg and Tony Welch; one daughter, Debra Enos; two sisters, Frances Wilcox and Evelyn Kay Gerstenberger; two brothers-in-law, Don Wilcox and Harold Jacques; and one step-son, Scott Elsholz. In keeping with Ernest's wishes, cremation has taken place and a memorial gathering will be held at a later date. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorial contributions to the Family Discretionary Fund, c/o Lillian Gerstenberger, 205 West Sherman Street, Caro, MI 48723.