Ernest Thomas Wake

Ernest Thomas Wake, 86, of Cabool, MO, formerly of Benton Harbor, MI passed away January 29, 2018. He was the husband of Mabel for 68 years and the father of Ernie (Tina), Rose and Debbie (deceased).   Ernest was born July 27, 1931 and moved his family to the Benton Harbor area as a young man. After retiring from the Watervliet Paper Mill more than 20 years ago, he and Mabel returned to his beloved Missouri hills. He loved his family and especially his grandchildren, Sarah Wake (Casey Troyer), Ben Wake and fiancée Diana Willsie, Christine Coble, Dana (Brian) Morris, Mark Coble, Corey Carolla and fiancée Autumn, Brandi Spaniola and Jenna (Chris) Alisch. He also has 19 great grandchildren and 2 great, great grandchildren. Grandpa will be missed by all. Ernest is also survived by his brother Jim (Jeanne) Wake, sister-in-law Joan Wake of Cabool, MO sister –in-law Linda Wake of Willow Springs, MO and Kathy Wake of Springfield, MO. Ernest was preceded in death by his father Manuel, mother Rosie, sister Julie and brothers Doyle, Lonnie, Roy and Dale. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 1:00pm, Wednesday, February 7, 2018, at Starks & Menchinger Chapel, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph, MI. Visitation will be held from 5-7pm, Tuesday, February 6, also at the funeral home. Burial will follow at North Shore Memory Gardens, Coloma, MI. Those wishing to sign the guest book or leave a condolence online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.