Obituary of Ernest Frank Parrish

Peacefully on Friday October 4, 2024, Ernie was called home.

Ernie is survived by his wife of 56 years, Dorothy-Jean Thomson, his children Stewart (Lynn), Laureen and his grandchildren Cassandra, Harlee, Cole, Ryder and Ryker.

Ernie was born in Flin Flon Manitoba, moving to Elmwood when he was seven. He soon made lifelong friends in the community and met DJ. He played hockey and was an active member of Gordon United’s Young People. Dad grew up with a love of woodworking, like his father and grandfather, and passed this on to his grandsons. Many pieces he made ended up with friends and family.

Ernie married Dorothy in 1968 and they built their dream home and farm in 1972 in Springfield Manitoba where they farmed the property with friends, raised their children and created lasting friendships with neighbors.

Ernie loved being around all his family and friends making countless memories over the years, which he recorded by taking photos with his beloved camera. He enjoyed camping, traveling abroad, woodworking, puzzles, meeting people and helping others.

Ernie spent his career with MTS, forging lifelong friendships and memories which he treasured. He was an active member at both St. Catherine’s & Bird’s Hill United Church where he enjoyed donating his time and making friends.

When Ernie retired his grandchildren arrived. He was very active in their lives, spending countless hours with them, teaching them, traveling to see them, watched all the events that he could take in. He was always there for his kids helping them, cheering them on, and teaching them life lessons.

In his retirement he also enjoyed countless trips with friends and family. Monday mornings will not be the same without his morning emails full of jokes. He spent countless hours researching the family ancestry, and connected with extended family around the world. He enjoyed working part time at Budget Rent a car, and Gauthier Chevrolet. He loved his men’s breakfast and Elmwood High lunches. He loved taking care of their yard and driving numerous tractors into the ground while maintaining his park. He will be forever loved and missed by his family and those that knew him.  

Our family would like to send a special thank you to all the family and friends who helped us through this difficult journey.

To the staff at Selkirk Cancer Care, McDermott Cancer Care, Oakbank Pharmasave, and River View Palliative Care Unit (3E), Thank you is really not enough for all your acts of kindness shown to Ernie and our family.

In lieu of flowers please honor Ernie by doing a random act of kindness, make someone laugh; take a moment to remember Ernie with a favorite memory of him; call an old friend and check on them like he would do. A private family service will be held as per Ernie’s wishes.