ERNEST ALEXANDER BRUNETTA

Ernest Alexander Brunetta, 88, of Fort Frances, Ont., passed away peacefully on Friday, Nov. 7, 2014 at La Verendrye Hospital in Fort Frances.
The oldest son of Giovanni “John” and Maria, he was born into a large and loving family as Ernesto Allessandro Brunetta on Feb. 24, 1926 in Thunder Bay, Ont.
The family moved to Fort Frances in 1940 when Ernie was 15.
Ernie worked his entire career for the local paper company, retiring in 1986 after more than 41 years of service.
He was well-known and fondly remembered as the Personnel Manager responsible for hiring in the mill. Ernie never forgot anyone whom he had hired, and he frequently was stopped and thanked by those whose lives he had changed immeasurably through the simple of act of giving them a job when they needed it the most.
Ernie was proud to be a lifetime member of the Knights of Columbus, and he was a dedicated member and supporter of St. Mary’s Parish in Fort Frances.
He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and curling and, most of all, time spent with his family.
Ernie and Loretta “Lolly” Toffan were married on Oct. 11, 1952 and together they raised their four children, Clare, Dawn Marie, Dale, and Ernie Jr. They also were blessed with nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, of whom he was exceedingly proud.
Ernie was predeceased by his parents, John and Mary Brunetta; brother, Albert; and sister, Louise Reuter.
He is survived by his brother, Julian, and sister-in-law, Sandra Brunetta.
Ernie always will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Lolly; his beloved daughter, Dawn Marie Ash (James); and his sons, Clare (Beverly), Dale (Colleen), and Ernie (Michelle).
He also is survived by his grandchildren, Jennifer Ash (Arjan Dykman), Heather Ash (Chantal Robitaille), Paul Brunetta, Danielle “Claire” Driaut (Steeve), Michael Brunetta (Marie Stephenson), Holly Johnson (Jeremy), Ryan Brunetta (Ellen), and Daniel Brunetta; step-granddaughter, Ashley Ryan; and great-grandchildren, Delaney and Tristan Dykman, Eli Johnson, Bradley and Anthony Brunetta, and Ava Brunetta.
Visitation with family and parish prayers will be held Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2014 starting at 7 p.m. at St. Mary’s Church in Fort Frances.
The funeral service will be held Thursday, Nov. 13, 2014 at 11 a.m. St. Mary’s Church, celebrated by Rev. Fr. Victor De Gagné.
Interment will take place at a later date.
Should friends so desire, in memoriam donations may be made to Riverside Foundation for Health Care (dialysis unit) or to the charity of your choice.
Online condolences may be offered at www.northridgefuneralhome.com/book-of-memories/