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Ernest “Ernie” F. Troutman, 59, of Deaver, passed away nine days after being diagnosed with terminal cancer. He was grateful to be home, and he knew how much he was loved by his family and friends.
Ernie was born in Billings, on May 7, 1963, along with his twin and partner in crime, Ed, to George and Shirley Troutman. Ernie grew up in Worden, Montana, beside the Yellowstone River, with his three older sisters and brother. He helped the family with the dairy farm. Ernie graduated from Huntley Project and was known for causing havoc and being a good friend.
He met the love of his life, Alicia, in 1985, when he and his gang of friends danced the “Gator,” and it impressed her so much she decided to marry him on Aug. 22, 1987.
Ernie and Alicia had two children. Ernie loved being a dad to Chelsie and Thomas. He was proud of the adults they became. His granddaughter, Dakota, was the sparkle in his eye. He enjoyed sharing his love of camping, traveling and classic rock. He loved the song “Renegade” by Styx, and he might have just been heard singing “The jig is up! The news is out! They finally found me!”
He was an accomplished woodworker and built several pieces for the family home. He loved taking vacations. He especially loved the cruises he and his wife shared. He loved feeding people and bringing them together. The in-laws were over often to share a meal and play cards. Surprisingly, he loved musicals, especially Mama Mia, Pitch Perfect, and Eddie and the Cruisers. He was also a big UW Cowboys fan — Go Pokes!
Ernie was a hard worker who never left a job unfinished. He took pride in doing a job well done. Anyone who knew Ernie knew exactly who he was by his actions. He was incredibly generous to those he loved. He loved big.
Ernie is survived by his wife Alicia, daughter Chelsie (Nick and granddaughter Dakota), son Thomas (Mikala and granddogs Lemony and Daisy), sister Debbie (Doug), sister Tamie, brother Ed (Connie), and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his father George, mother Shirley, and sister Julie.
Graveside services will be held at 11:30 a.m., at the Deaver/Frannie Cemetery on June 4. Reception to follow at the Deaver Town Hall.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Deaver Town Hall or Deaver Fire Station. His lasting advice is to “live your life to the fullest.” In the spirit of Kansas, “Carry on my wayward son, there’ll be peace when you are done.”
