Ernest D. McElwain

Ernie was born in Flat Woods, W.Va. on August 30, 1944 to parents William and Della (Hier) McElwain. He was a machinist by trade and was a dedicated and hard worker. He retired after a 40-year career and bragged that in all those years he never took a day off.

True to his proud West Virginian roots, he enjoyed the outdoors and was an avid hunter and fisherman; he had a profound respect for and skilled knowledge of nature. He was a man of routine and tradition. His mornings were spent drinking hot black coffee in the same coffee mug, Thanksgivings spent making his famous oyster stuffing and the New Year cooking sauerkraut all day long. He had a surprising sweet tooth despite his thin frame and loved his oreo cookies, oatmeal cream pies and salt-water taffy. Ernie loved all sports especially football. He spent many years on the chain crew for the Ravenna Football team. In his later years, he had a comical and unashamed love of soap operas, especially Days of our Lives. He also watched game shows and WWE wrestling, especially with his grandchildren. Spending time with his family was important and he dearly loved his grandchildren.

Ernie is survived by his children Tammy (Dan) Housley, Teresa Horvatic, David (Shera) McElwain and Kristina (Rick) Cundiff. He is also survived by many beloved grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Laurie and five siblings.

Per his wishes, cremation has taken place and a Celebration of his Life will be held at a later date.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.wood-kortright-borkoski.com