Fredrick Adam Ernst, 82, of Russell, Kansas, died on Wednesday, March 25, 2020, at the Russell Regional Hospital in Russell, Kansas.

Fred was born on April 08, 1937, in Otis, Kansas, the son of Joseph and Bertha (Schneider) Ernst. He grew up in Russell, Kansas and attended local schools and served his country joining the United States Army. He met, fell in love and was united in marriage to Darlene Marie Karlin on July 14, 1962 in Victoria Kansas. From this union Fred and Darlene were blessed with 3 sons Mark, Michael and Matthew. He provided for his family by working in the oilfield industry. He was a member of St. Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church and the American Legion both of Russell, Kansas. He enjoyed fishing, golfing, hunting, and playing cards.

Surviving family include his wife Darlene of Russell; sons Michael Ernst and wife Laurie of Russell, Kansas and Matthew Ernst and wife Sherri of Olathe, Kansas; 4 grandchildren Kelsey, Derek, Tyler and Ashlyn and 2 great grandchildren Kristopher and Ensley.

He was preceded in death by his parents, son Mark & brother Lionel, and sister Carol June Billinger, and half-brothers and sisters:  Carl, Mark, Vernon, Wallace, Alexander, Roland, Albert, Vienna, and Florence. 

A private family graveside will be held immediately at St. Mary Catholic Cemetery in Russell with burial to follow. There will be no visitation or greeting with family.  A memorial service may be held at a later date.  Memorials may be given to Russell VFW and sent in care of the mortuary.  Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell, Kansas, is in charge of the funeral service arrangements.