Whitewater, WI—Ernest (Ernie) Robert Staebler, Age 81 passed away Monday August 30, 2021 at Fairhaven in Whitewater, WI following a courageous battle with Brain Cancer.
Ernie was born in Burlington, WI to parents Bertha & Paul Staebler on December 14th, 1939. He grew up in Waterford, WI where he graduated from Waterford High School. Ernie was baptized, confirmed, & married at St. Peters Lutheran Church in Waterford, WI. Ernie married Margaret N. Mayer on September 18th, 1965 and was married almost 56 years. Ernie spent his working life employed as a precision tool grinder (33 years) at Charter Wire in Milwaukee, WI.
Ernie & Marge moved to Whitewater, WI in 1981 when they started their custard stand Frosty’s Frozen Custard and ran it for 23 years. During his time at Frosty’s you could see him after work most days at Frosty’s working in his vast flower gardens. He earned much recognition from his gardens including a commendation from Gov. Thompson and a writeup in national publication Birds & Blooms. When he wasn’t working in his gardens he loved to fish & hunt. Thru the years you would have found him on dartball & horseshoe leagues in the area where he loved razzing his competition.
Ernie is survived by his wife Margaret (Mayer) Staebler and their two remaining children, Charlene Staebler & Keith Staebler. His youngest daughter Teresa (Ryan) Pope lost her battle with Cancer in 2018. Ernie has four grandchildren. Brianna & Skylar Staebler (Keith), and Madisyn & Logan Pope (Ryan & Teresa). Ernie has two older brothers Paul II (Sharon) Staebler and William (Marilyn) Staebler. He is preceded in passing by his father Paul I Staebler and mother Bertha (Moritz) Staebler.
Funeral services will be held Monday September 6th, 2021 at Nitardy Funeral Home in Whitewater, WI. Visitation will be from 1-3pm. Services will be conducted at 3 pm by Pastor Steven Blyth of St. Matthew Lutheran Church of Palmyra. Celebration of life to follow.
Nitardy Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be made at www.nitardyfuneralhome.com
