Mark Ernst

On January 18, 2024, Mark Ernst passed away to rejoin Deborah Ernst whom he has missed very much over the last 7 years.

Many of you probably know our father by another title from over the years: Coach Ernst being a common one along with no shortage of nicknames.

To us he was always and forever “Dad.” Throughout their lives, Mom & Dad have shown us through their actions how to live life, treat others, and have fun as an active family.

Despite there being plenty of room at the front there was never pressure to make the Olympics or be elitist, but to share their passions of sport with us and others in the community. From InComp to founding Hillcrest Running Club and Bay Nordic, supporting NDA XC/TF, Door County Triathlon, and skiing the Birkie — they were there for all of it. Many of you have certainly experienced the same impact through these organizations or just from knowing them as people. We look forward to hearing your stories and encourage you to share.

The values we learned from them we will take into our adult lives and we hope that everyone we meet can continue to see the impact they have had through us.

Dad, we’ll see you on the trail.

Love,

Hans, Ian, Will

Mark Christian Ernst was born December 25, 1957 to Gustave and Elizabeth (Betty) Ernst. He married his soulmate Deborah Stumpf in 1998. He is survived by their three sons, Hans, Will, and Ian. He is also survived by his siblings, Gus Jr. (Susan) Ernst, Paul Ernst, Marcia (John) Behrendt, Laurel (David) Arendt, John (Ann) Ernst, and Carl (Kim) Ernst. From Deborah’s family, he is survived by his father-in-law, Roy J Stumpf, sister and brother-in-laws, Mary (James) Hujet, Barbara (Dave) Withbroe, and Roy (Sarah) Stumpf. Surviving nieces and nephews include Jonathon, Christopher, Adam, Sarah, Alex, Emily, Anne Marie, Jacob, Shannon, Jason, Ashley, Richard, Kathryn, Rachel, and Joseph. Mark is survived by multitudes of friends who loved him as family. He joins those who passed before him, his wife, Deborah (Stumpf) Ernst, parents, Gustave and Elizabeth Ernst, mother-in-law, Hallie Stumpf, one sister-in-law, Linda Ernst, and his furry canine companion for many years, Nellie.

Mark’s circle of positive impact was immense and his legacy will live on through those who were impacted throughout his life. A June 1st celebration of life is planned with details available here: markernstcelebrationoflife.com. 

Please address correspondence to: The Ernst Family P.O. Box 805 Green Bay, WI 54305.

Mark was an ardent proponent of the Friends of the Fox River Trail, Bay Nordic Ski Club, Inc. and the Door County Triathlon. Donations may be made to these organizations in Mark’s name.