Ernest Edward Courtois

Ernest Edward Courtois, also known by family and friends as “Ernie” of Potosi, departed this life on Tuesday, September 29, 2020 having reached the age of sixty-eight years, nine months and four days. Ernie was born on December 25, 1951, a son to the late James Carl Courtois and the late Ruby Pearl (Hedrick) Courtois.

On November 3, 1990, Ernie was united in marriage to Melinda King and they shared twenty-nine years together.

Ernie will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him including his wife, Melinda Courtois, four children: Tammy (Brian) Reed, Jodi (Jud) Ray, Alice (Tim) Fierce, Alisa (Michael) Kilgo; eleven grandchildren: Brittany (Jacob) Middleton, Hunter Reed and Kailee Kinder, Devon Brawley and Fiancé Brianna Warthen, Carter Fierce, Gabe Brawley, Katelynn Fierce, Abby Ray, Chase Fierce, Kinslee Fierce, Kylee Fierce, and Ryker Kilgo; two great grandchildren, Axel Middleton and Bryon Brawley; three siblings, Roseann (Robert) Schuler, Vivian (Harold) Halbert and Terry (Anita) Courtois; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Donna Courtois, Brenda Courtois, Danny Goodson, Mike and Lisa King, and John King. Ernie is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

In addition his father and mother, Ernie was preceded in death by six siblings: Stella Courtois, Leroy Courtois, Jimmy Dale Courtois, Norma Jacobs, Albert Courtois, and Karen Goodson; father-in-law and mother-in-law: Bill and Marie King; and many other dear relatives.

Ernie worked for local mining companies from 1970 to the early 1980’s. He became employed by Purcell Tire from the mid 1980’s to the 1990’s. Ernie enjoyed building and racing cars, fishing, spending time with family and friends, but most of all spending time with his cat Sadie. He was proud of his daughters and the mothers they became as well as the children they have raised. His biggest blessing in life was his wife Melinda. He was a devoted Catholic and enjoyed going to church when he had the ability to do so.

Visitation was held on Friday, October 2nd from 4:30 to 8 p.m. Visitation resumed Saturday, October 3rd, from 9 to 11 a.m. at DeClue Funeral Home.

A Funeral Service to honor Ernie was held on Saturday, October 3rd at 11 a.m., in the DeClue Memorial Chapel, officiated by Fr. James Hanson.

Interment and final prayers were held at Sunset Hill Cemetery, Potosi. Funeral services were respectfully entrusted to the care and direction of DeClue Funeral Home.