Kenneth B. Ernst, 80, of Fort Wayne, IN, and having family members in Huntington, IN, died Monday, June 29, 2009, at Select Specialty Hospital, Fort Wayne.

Mr. Ernst was the owner and operator of Ernst Truck Equipment for more than 50 years and was still active in the company. He was a member of Good Shepherd United Methodist Church, Fort Wayne.

He was born in Liberty Center to Ralph and Mae Ernst. Leah Ernst, his wife of more than 50 years, preceded hm in death in 1997.

Survivors include a son, Steven (Debbie) Ernst, of St. Louis, MO; a daughter, Sandra (Dayton) Ream, of Fort Wayne; and three grandchildren, Amy (Jamie) Mayberry, of Chicago, IL; Eric Ernst, of St. Louis, MO; and Julie (Chris) Wade, of Huntington.

Calling is Monday, July 6, 2009, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at E. Harper & Son Funeral Home, 740 Ind.-930 E, New Haven. A service will be held at the funeral home on Tuesday, July 7, 2009, at 10 a.m., with calling one hour prior to the service. Burial will be at Covington Memorial Gardens, Fort Wayne.

Preferred memorials are gifts to Good Shepherd United Methodist Church or the charity of the donor's choice.