Ernest "Ernie" Lilley

Peacefully with family by his side, Ernest John Lilley passed away on Wednesday, November 6th, 2019 at the Portage District General Hospital at the age of 72 years.

Ernie is lovingly remembered by the mother of his children, Sue Pickett, his daughters Renée (Todd) and Aimée (Ruskin), granddaughters Zoée, Madeline, Chloie and Carmin, siblings Larry (Barb), Norman (Tracey), Alan, Wilbert (Connie), Kim, Marion (Earl), and Glenda (Gerald), along with many nieces, nephews, other family and friends. Ernie is predeceased by his parents Eustache and Ina Lilley, and brothers Johnny, Carl, Ronnie and Kenny.

Dad was born in Layland, Manitoba on March 15th, 1947. He grew up and resided in Portage his whole life, except for a couple years when he moved to BC to help raise his first granddaughter, Zoée. He went to school in Layland, then North Ward, LVS and PCI. During his working years he worked at Cobbe’s, Campbell’s Soup, and McCain’s, where he retired after 25 years. During retirement he worked for Taylor Janitorial and then drove shuttle for a few years. Dad enjoyed baseball, playing on many family teams with his brothers and friends. He also played hockey in his younger years and lost a few teeth from it. He was a great musician. He played guitar and sang in various bands and would strum and sing Johnny Cash tunes for his girls at home. Dad loved his music, when he wasn’t playing, he’d always be listening to his favorites, often with big headphones and his CD player. He used to like bike rides with his girls and was always worried about their safety no matter what, telling them to ride in single file, or watch for cars, and dress warm. Food is love in our family, and dad was no stranger to the kitchen. He could make an awesome split pea and ham soup, chicken soup, bannock, and taco dip, to name a few faves. He loved his sweets, especially butter tarts and cream soda. He’ll always be remembered for making his silly jokes, cracking a smile or a laugh.

Visitation and viewing will take place on Friday, November 8, 2019 from 2-3 p.m. at McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel.

If friends so wish, donations may be made in memory of Ernie to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Manitoba 1379 Kenaston Boulevard Winnipeg, MB R3P 2T5.

A tree will be planted in memory and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel.  www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com