William "Bill" A Ernst

William A. Ernst (Bill), 68, left the land of living on June 27, 2016 at his home in Montrose, Colorado.  He died in his sleep after a painful and lengthy illness.  He leaves his wife of 25 years Alicia (Beebe) Ernst of Montrose, CO and a sister, Alice L. Sherwood of Riverside, CT.  Bill was born in Brooklyn, NY, the son of Howard and Julia Ernst (both deceased); he grew up in the Westchester County of New York.  He graduated from Cushing Academy located in Ashburnham, MA and attended Denver University.  In his early years, Mr. Ernst worked at Ernst and Company as a stock broker.  He then began training race horses in the southern California area before coming to Montrose to work in the human service field and then as a real estate agent.

Bill was a special and unique individual that truly loved animals and people.  It was said “that God broke the mold after he made Bill.”  His quick-wit, insightful perspectives and entertaining personality will be missed by all who knew him.  Bill Ernst had a passion for horses throughout his life and owned a retired racehorse, Bad Boy Bill, currently at Menoken Farms in Montrose at the time of his death.  He loved playing golf when he was physically able to do so and had many fond memories of friends that he had made at the Montrose Golf Course.  Bill’s main passion in life was well prepared food especially appetizers and New York deli favorites, and therefore was a frequent patron of restaurants in the area.

Memorial contributions can be made to HopeWest Hospice, 725 S. 4th Street, Montrose, CO 81401 or Community Options Inc., 336 S. 10th Street, Montrose, CO 81401.  A Memorial Service in celebration if Bill’s life will be held on Wednesday, July 6, 2016 at 4:00 P.M. at Crippin Funeral Home Chapel.  Crippin Funeral Home in Montrose is assisting the family.