Ernest L. “Ernie” Lynch, 90, of Shippensburg, departed this life on the morning of Sunday, August 30, 2020, at his home.
He was born on May 17, 1930, in Cleversburg, a son of the late Elmer A. and Cora M. (Kunkleman) Lynch. Ernie was a U.S. navy veteran of the Korean War, enlisting on July 7, 1948 and honorably discharged on November 25, 1952.
After being discharged from the Navy, Ernie went to work for Conrail (formerly Reading Railroad), retiring after forty-two years of employment. After retiring from Conrail, Ernie started dabbling in the produce business. He eventually set-up his own produce stand in Cleversburg, which he operated for twenty-two years. Ernie really loved attending the local produce auctions and meat raffles, more so because he loved interacting with people and being around everyone.
He was a member of the Oscar M. Hykes American Legion Post #223 and the Durff-Kuhn V.F.W. Post #6168, both of Shippensburg, as well as the Walnut Bottom Rod and Gun Club. In younger years, while raising his family, Ernie enjoyed traveling, taking numerous cross country trips to Texas, Ohio, and Florida, as well as traveling to Canada. He liked to hunt and fish, enjoyed fireworks, and most importantly, spending time with his family.
Ernie is survived by his wife, Wanda L. (Danner) Lynch, whom he married on September 10, 1999, in Las Vegas, NV; five children, Deborah Conner and husband Bob of Chambersburg, Queena Myers and husband Tommy of Shippensburg, Rick Lynch and wife Heather of Myerstown, Delores Wells and husband Dennis of Glovertown, Newfoundland, and Eileen Lynch of Glovertown, Newfoundland; two step-children, Steven Wiles and wife Molly of Hanover, and Wendy Howard and husband Rob of King George, VA; one sister, Berhilda Keefer and husband Quenard of Lorraine, OH; twenty one grandchildren; eighteen great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, Ernie was preceded in death by his first wife, Twyla Lynch; one daughter, Christine Fulghum, one son, Ernest L. Lynch, Jr.; one grandson, Steven Wells; four brothers; and three sisters.
His funeral service will be held at 4:00 p.m., on Saturday, September 5, 2020, at the Shippensburg Independent Baptist Church. Pastor Kenneth Waggoner will officiate. Private interment for only his immediate family will follow in the Spring Hill Cemetery. Military honors will be conducted by the Oscar M. Hykes American Legion. Viewing will be Saturday afternoon from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m., at the church. Those in attendance are asked to observe the recommendations pertaining to reducing the potential spread of Covid-19; wearing masks, hand sanitizing, and social distancing as much as is possible.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to SpiriTrust Lutheran Home Care and Hospice at 2700 Luther Drive Chambersburg, PA 17202.