Ernest C. Yoder Jr., 85, Milford passed away April 9, 2017 at Lakeland Rehabilitation and Health Center in Milford.

He was born on Feb. 19, 1932 in San Francisco and his parents were Clarence and Alma L. (Brown) Yoder. Ernest graduated from New Paris High School and went on to honorably serve his country in the US Army during the Korean Conflict.

On July 8, 1951, he was married to Ruth Hall at the Turkey Creek Church of the Brethren in Gravelton by Rev. Leroy Fisher. Ernest worked for Penn Controls in Goshen for over 10 years and then established Yoder Backhoe, an excavation business which he owned and operated until he retired.

After retiring, Ernie loved to frequent auctions where he would find antique tools to restore and collect, it was his favorite hobby. He also liked to feed and watch birds. When he wasn’t with family, Ernie could often be found enjoying a cold Dr. Pepper with his circle of friends at Burger King in Nappanee.

Ernie will be missed by his wife of 65 years, Ruth Yoder; three children, Cynthia Epply (Troy Kennedy), Ardonna (Keith) Weaver, and Michael (Tina) Yoder; five grandchildren, wife of Chad, Stephanie Yoder, Bree Kaylor, Nicholas Yoder, Toby (Sue) Cripe, and Wendy (Matt) Grady; and eight great grandchildren.

Ernest was preceded in death by his mother and a grandson, Chad Yoder.

There will be private services for Ernest at a later date with military honors. Ernie would like to be remembered by friends and family as he was.

Memorial contributions may be given to the Nappanee Church of the Brethren or Lakeland Rehabilitation and Health Center of Milford.

Mishler Funeral Home and Cremation Center is assisting with arrangements.