Obituary
It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of Daniel Edward Ernst (Dirt) on May 13th, 2024. Dan was born on February 12th, 1943, in Grand Haven, MI to Aubrey and Margaret (Klett) Ernst. In 1966 he married Janice Slot who he met in high school and reconnected with after college. They made Holt, MI their home for 39 years where they raised their two children Ted (Abby) Ernst and Crissey (Scott) Vitolins.
He graduated from Parsons College located in Fairfield, IA in 1965 with a Bachelor of Arts degree and earned a Masters Degree from Michigan State University in 1970.
Dan was a teacher at Holt High School in Holt, MI for 38 years. He taught business classes and drivers education and worked with co-op students and coached football. Dan was a pillar of the community, making an impact on whomever he met always with a friendly smile, a witty comment or just a big wave. He enjoyed washing his cars, making people happy, University of Michigan football and golf.
Upon retirement Dan and Janice moved to a retirement community in Summerfield, FL to enjoy life, travel the world and play lots of golf.
Dan is survived by his wife Janice, his son Ted Ernst and his wife Abby of Chicago and daughter Crissey Vitolins and son in law Scott of Norwalk, CT; Grandchildren Charlotte and Lindsay Ernst; Brother Jim Ernst and wife Linda; Sister In Laws Betty (Jim) Korbecki and Mary Warbasse. Nephew Geoff Ernst (Shorty Arble), niece Emily Abitbol (Matt), grandnieces Alice and Isla Abitbol and several other nieces and nephews. Dan was predeceased by his older brother Bill Ernst and nephew Kevin Ernst.
To honor Dan’s legacy at Holt High School, a scholarship has been set up for a Holt High School Senior CTE program completer. Donations can be mailed to the Holt Education Foundation at 5780 Holt Road, Holt, MI 48842. Please indicate “Dan Ernst CTE Scholarship” in the memo of the check.
A celebration of life will be held on August 18th, 2024, at El Dorado golf course in Mason, MI where Dan played golf and worked for many years.
Arrangements entrusted with BALDWIN BROTHERS Funeral & Cremation Society-Spanish Springs, 352-430-1449. Sentiments are encouraged at www.baldwincremation.com.
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