It is with great sadness that we announce Mr. Ernest ‘Ernie’ Gustav Nygaard passed away, surrounded by loved ones, at home on Tuesday, December 6, 2022 at the age of 86 years. Ernie was born on April 24, 1936 in Eckville, Alberta. He started his education at Blueberry School, and then continued at Medicine Valley. Ernie attended school enough to be able to play ball with the other kids, and at age thirteen, he left school and started working. He spent time in the Forestry Industry, at Camp 15 and other logging camps and sawmills. He started in the Oilfield as an operator in 1959 and moved to Sedgewick. Ernie and Darlene Goforth were married in April 1960. In 1978, he moved his family back to the Eckville/Leslieville area. Ernie and Bernice Huseby (nee Dyrland) married in December 1985. He finished his operating career in the Gilby field for Petro Canada in 1992. After retiring, Ernie and Bernice enjoyed traveling with friends and spending time with family. They built a beautiful log home in 1996, where he lived until his passing. Ernie was happiest when in the outdoors. He loved hunting, fishing, trapping, cutting firewood and picking berries. He guided for Sammy and Marie Sands for several years, and also for Lyle Dorey. He was best known for finding great Bighorn Sheep and Elk in the west country. Over the years, he built many strong friendships while helping numerous American hunters fulfill their dreams. Ernie was very proud of the hunt in 1978 when a bighorn sheep was captured that made it to the Boon and Crocket record book. He used all his vacation days doing what he loved, spending time in the bush. When he couldn’t be out west, he spent lots of time trapping in the area. He may have checked a trap or two while doing his rounds at work. One year, he sold enough pelts to purchase a 24-foot holiday trailer. Ernie loved picking berries of all kinds and found great joy in sharing with others. He would share the berries but not always the location. Ernie’s love of baseball stuck with him for life. He was a regular umpire for the Leslieville Men’s Team, and often still thought he was ump’ing while watching grandkids play or watching games on TV. Crib was a part of Ernie; for years, he joined the crew at Terry Engen’s for crib and stories. Through all the adventures, and right till the end, his very close friend, Lynn Read was beside Ernie. Ernie really appreciated all the time spent with Lynn. Ernie had a huge heart and would talk to anyone. Every dog was a good dog and would get extra attention and treats from Ernie. Everyone that crossed paths with Ernie will have a story or two to remember him by. In addition to all the friends and extended family, Ernie leaves to mourn his sister, Elsie Overgaard, his children, Marilyn and Tom Byers (Ryan, Rhonda, Christina and families), John and Darcey Huseby (Chad, Cody, Krista and families), Brian and Dawn Huseby (Raelyn and family, Jeff), Karen and Randy Shearer (Wyatt), Kevin Huseby and Cathy Reddy (Kendra and family, Brent), Travis and Leanda Huseby (Brayden and family, Jennifer), Connie Hainsworth (Charlie, Amanda, Alanna and families), Donny Nygaard (Josh, Kyle), Wanda Saarela (Richard, Denis, Curtis and families) and Son in Law Brent Hainsworth. Ernie was predeceased by his parents, Gus and Emma Nygaard, a son, Allen Nygaard, his wife, Darlene, his wife, Bernice and his grandchildren, Gavin Byers and Brad Huseby. We want to thank the Eckville and West Country Home Care teams for all the care during Ernie’s illness, especially Robbie Potts and Tammy Lechmann. At Ernie’s request, there will be no service at this time. A Celebration of Ernie’s Life will take place at a later date. Cremation entrusted to Parkland Funeral Home and Crematorium, Red Deer, Alberta. Condolences may be sent or viewed at www.parklandfuneralhome.com

Parkland Funeral Home and Crematorium (Red Deer)

6287 – 67 A Street (Taylor Drive), Red Deer. 403.340.4040.

ONLY LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED FUNERAL HOME/CREMATORIUM

IN THE CITY OF RED DEER.

• Date : 2022-12-14
• Location : www.ParklandFuneralHome.com & www.HeartlandFuneralServices.com