Ernest "Ernie" Koskela

Ernest Walter "Ernie" Koskela, age 76, a long time Park Rapids area resident, passed away on Sunday, August 16, 2015 at the Green Pine Acres Nursing Home in Menahga, MN. Ernie was born on November 8, 1938 to Walter and Sigrid (Wiitanen) Koskela on his parent's farm near Wolf Lake, MN. It was in this same area that he attended country school through the sixth grade and then went on to attend high school in Frazee, MN where he graduated with the Class of 1956. On June 13, 1959, Ernie was united in marriage to May White of Menahga, MN. Together they were blessed with three children: Steven, Brian and Sheryl. They made their home in the Twin Cities until moving to Park Rapids in 1970. Ernie worked for many years as a sales representative for multiple pet supply distributors. In his later years, Ernie worked for RDO on the irrigation crew. Ernie never missed a hunting season and thoroughly enjoyed his time spent at "the shack" with family and friends. His life was deeply saddened with the death of his precious wife, May in March of this year. He was a member of the Riverside United Methodist Church of Park Rapids. He is survived by his three children: Steven (Patty) Koskela of Hanover, MN, Brian (Sheri) Koskela of Dayton, MN and Sheryl Spies of Sauk Rapids, MN; nine grandchildren and five great grandchildren; five siblings: Helen (Ed) Frith, Irene Bukachek, Ken (Sharon) Koskela, Elmer (Sharon) Koskela and Mary (Jim) Dennis; as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends. Ernie was preceded in death by his parents and wife, May. Services will be held 12 Noon, Saturday, August 22, 2015 at the Riverside United Methodist Church in Park Rapids with the Reverend Dr. Duane Gebhard officiating. The organist will be Linda Szuszitsky. The urn bearers will be grandsons: Dustin Koskela, Austin Koskela, and Ryan Spies. Inurnment will be made at the Riverside Memorial Gardens. Visitation will begin 11 AM Saturday at the church. A luncheon will be hosted by the Riverside United Methodist Church for all. To view the video tribute or to leave on line condolences please visit www.jonespearson.com.