Ernest Stolze
Godfrey |
Ernest J. Stolze, 88, passed away at 3:48 am, November 20, 2012 at Alton Memorial Hospital with his family by his side.
He was born in Alton, IL on December 12, 1923 the son of the late Ernest C. and Mary (Frances) Stolze.
On November 12, 1947 he married Stella Dodson at St. Matthews Church in Alton. She preceded him in death November 17, 1991.
Ernest worked for Owen’s Illinois Glass Company in Godfrey for 47 years retiring as a Machinist in 1989. He was a member of Machinist Union Local 660. He served in the US Army from March 1942 to December 1946. He served in the 26th Infantry Division in Patton’s 3rd Army. He was awarded the Bronze Star, European Ribbon, and five Battle Ribbons. He fought in the Battle of the Bulge and was the first to reach Bastogne. Ernest was also a charter member of St. Matthews Church and most recently was a member of St. Ambrose Catholic Church. He enjoyed gardening, camping in his motorhome, traveling, visiting Yellowstone and Alaska, along with listening to music such as Johnny Cash and The Gaithers.
He is survived by five daughters, Carol (Dave) Wilcox of Alton, IL, Janet Stolze of Alton, Sue Kelly of Alton, Barb (Greg) Sutphin of Godfrey, Jean (Don) Goetges of Alton; one brother, Kenny (Elaine) Stolze of Godfrey; a former sister-in-law, Delores “Dee” Stolze; ten grandchildren, Michael (Deb) Wilcox, Cindy (Jeff) Lowe, Steve (Jennifer) Kelly, Lisa (Jason) Wolf, Tracie (Michael) Eilerman, MaryBeth (Matt) Pagano, Lori Sutphin, Jeff Wilcox, Matt (Lori) Sutphin, Katie Sutphin; and sixteen great grandchildren.
In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by two sisters, Berniece Niemeyer and Marcella “Sally” Bauser.
Visitation will be from 4 pm to 7 pm, Sunday, November 25, 2012 at Elias, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home in Godfrey, IL.
Funeral mass will be at 10:30 am, Monday, November 26, 2012 at St. Ambrose Catholic Church in Godfrey, IL with Father Steve Pohlman officiating.
Burial will follow at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Alton, IL.
Military rites will be accorded by the VFW Post 1308.
Memorials may be made to the Kilo Diabetes and Vascular Research Foundation, March of Dimes or Masses.
Online condolences and guest book may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com
Elias, Kallal & Schaaf Funeral Home
