Ernest Gerald Archer
January 17, 1933 – January 13, 2014
Born in Montreal, Quebec on January 17, 1933 Ernie, even as a young man, was actively involved in youth groups, hockey and scouts. In 1956, the sea was calling him and he joined the Canadian Navy which launched his career as an Ad Writer, the right arm of his Admiral.
On a train trip on August 27, 1959, he would meet the love of his life, Merle, a beautiful air force cryptographer. Ernie and Merle were married on June 25, 1960.
In 1962, their first son Dean was born, quickly followed in 1963 by son, Duncan. It was shortly after this point that Ernie retired from Navy life to be at home with the family he loved, moving the family for a short stop in Terrace for the birth of his daughter Dalice, before going to Kitimat and then to the place that would be home, Kemano.
Ernie’s life in Kemano started as warehouseman and later promoted to purchaser for Alcan.
His volunteer hours were almost endless, as he took on many roles involving Legion, Town Crier, Member of the CORE program, Boy Scouts of Canada and Rod & Gun. Ernie was also the welcome wagon for all new comers, greeting them with a fish he had caught, as well as being active in Toastmasters, Restorative Justice, and a strong supporter of the Army Cadets, formerly Sea Cadets of Kitimat. Many causes, one of them being handicap accessibility, he fought a strong battle for.
After a brief retirement in Victoria, Ernie & Merle returned to Kitimat.
Known by many in Kitimat for the roses he gave, the candies he never was without and his passion to fight for the underdog. Ernie loved the youth. They are the future and whatever way he could support or mentor he was always willing to do so.
Ernie will be missed and lovingly remember by his devoted wife Merle, sons Dean (Cheryl), Duncan (Nancy), daughter Dalice (Jon), grandsons Nathan, Colin and Aiden, granddaughter Angelina (Joe), and great grandson Tylar.
Celebration of Ernie’s life was held at Royal Canadian Legion Br 250 on
January 19, 2014. A mass will be held in Ernie’s name Sunday February 2, 2014 at Christ the King Church.
Special thanks to Tom & Linda Riley and Nancy Gray.
In lieu of flowers the family request donations be made in Ernie’s name to Heart & Stroke Foundation or Canadian Cancer Society.