Ernst A. Groth

Ernst A. Groth (Ernie), age 94, went home to his Lord and Savior on July 12, 2023. Born to August and Julianna (Kogelmann) on January 25, 1929 in Milwaukee, WI. He attended St. Marcus Lutheran Grade School and graduated from Milwaukee Lutheran High School, earning his tuition by delivering newspapers. He was actively involved in Junior Achievement. He proudly served his country during the Korean War in the United States Navy. Stationed at Pearl Harbor, HI, he served as an ammunition clerk. During this time he met the love of his life, Patricia (Bernard), whom he married 70 years ago on June 20, 1953 in Honolulu. After his naval discharge in 1954, Ernie convinced Pat to move with their infant daughter Linda to Wisconsin telling her that Lake Michigan was just like Waikiki Beach! Ernie worked in sales with Standard Oil Company and DX, and eventually moved into middle management at Modine Manufacturing and the international sales department with J.I. Case. Faith, family and a strong work ethic characterized Ernie’s life. As an active member for over 30 years at Trinity Lutheran Church in Racine, he served as Sunday School Superintendent, Treasurer and on various boards, including Racine Lutheran High School. In recent years, he was a member of Grace Lutheran Church, Oak Creek. Additionally, Ernie participated in the Mantle Club, Kiwanis and the VFW. Other interests included photography, reading and spending time outdoors. In 1989 Ernie and Pat fulfilled a dream of returning to Hawaii and lived there 10 years, where he worked in building maintenance. Upon retirement, the couple moved to Venice, Florida, and became snowbirds between Florida and Wautoma, Wisconsin. Declining health and the desire to be closer to family prompted their return to Wisconsin in 2019. In his final years, Ernie resided at the Veterans Home in Union Grove, where he received compassionate care. Ernie is survived by his loving wife, Patricia; children: Linda, Diane (Bill) Leon, Robert (Peggy), and Gloria (David) Compton; grandchildren: Matthew (Brooke), Joshua (Lauren), Melissa, Nicholas, Colin (Mara), Nathaniel (Jordan), Mitchell and Daniel; step-grandchildren: Stacy (Tam), Kristin (Dave) and Sarah (Nathan). He is further survived by 14 great-grandchildren, soon to be 15 in September, as well as other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Henry. The funeral service will be held on Wednesday, July 19, 2023 at Grace Lutheran Church, 3381 E. Puetz Road, Oak Creek at 11:00 am with visitation from 9:30 am until the time of the service. Interment will take place at Valhalla Cemetery, 5402 N. 91st Street, Milwaukee at 2:30 pm. Memorials may be directed to Grace Lutheran Church-Oak Creek; Trinity Lutheran Church-Racine, or Racine Lutheran High School. The family wishes to thank the staff at the Veterans Home in Union Grove for their kindness and care.

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Ernst A. Groth

January 25, 1929 - July 12, 2023