Ernest “Ernie” Elvin Etzweiler, formerly of Walpole, died peacefully on Aug. 1 at Bodwell Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Brunswick. Ernie was born on Dec. 8, 1928 to Elvin Etzweiler and Grace Ellen (Achenbach) Etzweiler, in Pottsville, Penn.
Ernie was raised in Elizabethville, Penn. and graduated from high school in 1946. He then attended Ithaca College and received a Bachelor of Science in Music. Ernie then joined the Air Force and served four years, playing in the Air Force Band. After his tour ended, Ernie went to the Eastman School of Music and received a Master’s degree in music education, graduating in 1957.
He taught music at an elementary school level in both Scotia and Holland, N.Y. for six years. Ernie left music to become a computer programmer and consultant with a number of different companies in New York for 31 years, before retiring in 1994.
Ernie married the love of his life, Barbara Hunter in 1982.
Ernie’s interests included fly fishing, hiking, playing the flute, tinkering in the stock market, and spending time with his loving family.
Ernie is survived by his wife of 33 years, Barbara of Topsham; daughters, Amy Etzweiler and husband, Matthew Croy of Brunswick, and Sharon Kang and husband Peter of Cape Elizabeth; step-daughter, Kim Hunter and husband Ken Anderson of Stone Ridge, N.Y.; step-sons, Kris Hunter and wife, Dee, of Hewitt, N.J., and Kent Hunter of Newburgh, N.Y.; nine grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
A family graveside service for Ernie will be held at a future time.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Salt Bay Chamberfest, P.O. Box 1268, Damariscotta, ME 04543, or the George’s River Chapter of Trout Unlimited, c/o Jeff Space, 592 Camden Rd., Hope, ME 04847.
To extend online condolences, light a candle for Ernie, or to share a story or picture, visit his Book of Memories at www.hallfuneralhomes.com.
Hall’s of Waldoboro has care of the arrangements.
