She preceded him in death on February 25, 1989. He attended Fifrick School as a youth and enjoyed playing baseball for Knapps, Tavern, mens league, and farmed until September 19, 1955, when he started work at Badger Paper Mills. He continued both his farm work and mill job until 1968, when he sold his cattle. Her retired from Badger Paper Mills after 27 years on April 30, 1982. He enjoyed spending time at his cabin in Beecher, fishing, hunting, and working in his woods.
Ernest is survived by three daughters Gwen Hancock, Peshtigo; Judy (Tim)
Derringer, Peshtigo; Kathy Votava, Madison; four sons Dennis Votava, Oconto; Ernest (Linda) Votava Jr., Oconto; Joseph Votava, Oconto; Ron (Sue) Votava, Peshtigo; nine grandchildren, two great grandchildren and nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his wife Adeline; two sisters Lillian (Clinton) Evans, Evelyn (Elmer) Armstrong; four children Sandra Votava, Timothy Votava, James Votava, Nola (James) Hoffman; one grandchild Tara Votava and one son-in-law Roger Hancock.
The family will receive relatives and friends at the Gallagher Funeral Home, Oconto, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, May 20. Funeral services will be conducted 2 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home with the Rev. David Zahn officiating and burial at Evergreen Cemetery.
A special thanks to Unity Hospice & NewCare Convalescent Center.