James 'Jim' Ernst, 79, of Le Mars, Iowa, passed away Monday, October 28, 2024, at his home in Le Mars following a lengthy illness.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, November 1, 2024, at All Saints Catholic Parish – St. Joseph Church in Le Mars. Father Doug Klein will celebrate Mass. Burial with military honors provided by the Wasmer American Legion Post 241 of Le Mars will be at Calvary Cemetery in Le Mars. Visitation with the family present will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 31, 2024, at Rexwinkel Funeral Home in Le Mars. There will be a Scriptural Prayer Service at 5:00 p.m. Visitation will resume from 10:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. on Friday at the church. Arrangements are with the Rexwinkel Funeral Home in Le Mars. Expressions of sympathy can be extended to the family through www.rexwinkelfh.com.

James Anton Ernst, the son of Elmer and Elizabeth 'Liz' (Wanderscheid) Ernst, was born on August 30, 1945, in Le Mars, Iowa. He attended school in Le Mars and graduated from Le Mars Central High School. Shortly after high school, he enlisted in the United States Army.

He was united in marriage to Marlene Bennett on February 24, 1968. While Jim was serving his country, they made their home in Colorado Springs, CO, and later in Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri. Jim served his country during the Vietnam Conflict. After serving for 6 years, he was honorably discharged on January 2, 1972. Following his discharge, they returned to Le Mars.

Jim went to work for Prince Manufacturing in Sioux City and also owned and operated an excavation business, Jim Ernst Earthwork. After a short time, his excavation business became his full-time job. He owned and operated the business for over 39 years, retiring in 2013.

Jim was a member of All Saints Catholic Parish in Le Mars. He was also a member of the Wasmer American Legion Post 241 in Le Mars and a former member of the Le Mars Eagle's Club. Jim served on the Le Mars Fire Rescue. He started in 1983 and retired after 20 years of service in 2003. He enjoyed camping, fishing, and boating. His family was his greatest joy, especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Survivors include his wife of over 56 years, Marlene of Le Mars; his children: Tricia Ernst of Le Mars, Ken (Cindy) Ernst of Le Mars, Deanna Burmakow (fiancé, Mike Rost) of Paullina, IA, and Kevin (Angela) Ernst of Le Mars; his grandchildren and great grandchildren: Jaime (Matt) Weitl and their children, Kaden, Sarah, and Nathen; Steve Schwarz; Scott (Karey) Schwarz; Brittani (Ross) Bootsma and their children, Brixley, Haisley, and Brecklynn; Allie Ernst; Jackson Simm; Maddie Rost; Kaitlen Ernst; Riley Ernst; and Connor Ernst; a special friend of the family, Mary Bauer of Le Mars; his sisters: Ellen (Denny) Weber of Council Bluffs, IA, and Lori (Mike) Feller of Le Mars, IA; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Liz Ernst; and his faithful companion, 'Charlie.'