87 of Scottsdale, AZ passed peacefully, surrounded by
family, May 30, 2011. Born in Muscoda, WI to Enos & Illma Cornwall. At 17, Ernie enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corp. and served in the S. Pacific during WWII. In 1945, he married Kathleen Milfred of Cazenovia, WI. They recently celebrated their 66th wedding anniversary. After earning his BA he had a long, successful career in the dairy industry. He taught agriculture and was the coordinator of the Wisconsin Farm Bureau and worked for the American Dairy Association and the National Dairy Council. In 1975, Ernie became the Marketing Director for United Dairymen of Arizona. In retirement, he enjoyed travel, golfing, family and friends. Ernie was preceded in death by his brother, Lyle. Ernie is survived by his wife Kathleen, and their 4 children – Jeanne Knox, Michael Cornwall, Susan Cornwall and Jill Helms (Chuck). His grandchildren: Amy, Bradley, Michael, Diane, Adam and Eric as well as 6 great-grandchildren, sister Darlene Saunders, sisters and brothers-in-law and many nieces and nephews. Ernie was a caring, gentle man who will be remembered for his deep love of family, and special commitment to his disabled daughter Susan. A Memorial Service will be held at 7:00pm, Sunday, June 5, at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, 4800 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, AZ. Interment will be at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona at a later date.
carmen bier
What a wonderful man was Ernie. I am sure he and Chuck will have a time up there as they did down here. Blessings to all the family. Love to all– C
Jay Alagia
Dear Kay,
I saw Ernest only once at the Sprouts with you but I will always remember him. After a long marriage, to be alone will be a challenge for you as it was for my mother, when she lost my father after 63 years of marriage. She went on with the help of children, grand children and especially great grand children. You too are blessed with them.
I pray for you and your family. May God give you strength to bear His wishes.
Jay Alagia