Ernest “Ernie” W. Anderson passed away peacefully on January 5, 2015 at his home in Grand Junction, Colorado surrounded by his loving family. Ernie was born on September 15, 1921 to John W. and Gwendolyn Anderson in Golden, Colorado. He was the fourth of ten children and attended schools in Golden.

Ernie answered the call of his country and served during WWII in General Patton’s Third Army. Ernie was in four major campaigns in Europe during WWII, including D-Day and the Battle of the Bulge, and received the Bronze Star in France in 1944. Ernie met Elaine Churches (daughter of Ralph J. and Vivian Churches) on the day he returned home from WWII. They were married in Denver in 1946. Ernie and Elaine started their life together in Golden where Ernie worked in construction for Coors Brewing Company and Elaine worked in the Coors Porcelain Plant.

Ernie and Elaine moved to Steamboat Springs in 1959 as the new owners of the Ski-Vu Motel. In 1962, they purchased Steamboat Floral and Greenhouse. At that time, Ernie also started his general contracting business building custom homes, cabins and cabinetry, as well as remodeling. Ernie later hired Donnie Sandelin and they worked together for 20 years. After retiring from his business, Ernie became a familiar face as a shuttle bus driver for Steamboat Ski Corporation where he worked for 12 years. Ernie and Elaine permanently retired to Grand Junction in 1992.

Ernie was a true Colorado native loving the outdoors, hunting, fishing and all that the Colorado mountains have to offer. Ernie and Elaine loved sports and were avid fans and supporters of the local junior high and high school athletic events.

Ernie is survived by his wife of 69 years, Elaine; daughters Pam (Joel) McKeehen of Loma, and Janet (Scott) Hartwigsen of Fort Collins; two granddaughters, five great-grandchildren, and one great-great-granddaughter.

Ernie was a mentor to many, and will be remembered for his honesty, integrity, strength of character, love of life, firm hand shake, winning smile, infectious laugh and warm heart. At Ernie’s request, there will be no services. A private remembrance will be held at a later date.