Ernest Cory

Ernest Cory, 84, of Mason City, died Monday December 21, 2015 at his home. Memorial services will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, December 26, 2015, at Major Erickson Funeral Home, 111 N. Pennsylvania Avenue, with Chaplain Janet Dorenkamp officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Memorials may be directed to the Ernest Cory memorial fund in care of the family, 1607 North Washington, Mason City, Iowa 50401.

Ernest Cory was born October 21, 1931 the son of Ardie Basil and Lena B. (Lucas) Cory in Mason City, Iowa. He graduated from Mason City High School and went on to work at Sedars Motors for several years before opening his own business with his partner Gene. Ernest had a reputation of being able to fix anything and was often called when others were stumped. He took great pride in being the best he could be whether as a father or a friend.

On April 14, 1951 Ernest was united in marriage to the love of his life Darlene Johnson in Waterloo, Iowa. To this union were born two daughters that Ernest would go the extra mile for whenever it was needed. He was known as a talker and was very proud of his family especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Work was a favorite pastime working two jobs most of his life. Ernest retired at age 57 to begin traveling to Pharr, Texas where Darlene and he spent 21 winters dancing and enjoying friends. He loved to play cards, go boating, camping, telling stories around the camp fire and just having a good time. Ernest rooted for the Iowa Hawkeyes and always looked forward to watching them on TV.

Those thankful for having shared in Ernest’s life include his two daughters; Linda (Charles) Forthmann, Diane (Randy) Williams, two sisters; Elberta (John) Crowe, Marge Wright, sister in law; Marilyn Barnett, five grandchildren; Michael (Karen) Forthmann, Jennifer (Tom) Gunderson, Jessica Cornett, Kaysie (Kenny) King, Eric (Kelsey) Williams, great grandchildren; Blake Forthmann, Bailey Gunderson, Sam and Libby Smith, Kaleb King, Rooney and Finch Williams and many nieces and nephews.

Mr. Cory was preceded in death by his parents, wife; Darlene, and seven siblings.

A special thank you goes out to all of Ernest’s great neighborhood friends.