Ernest Uhlir, age 86, of Fosston, MN, formerly Winger, MN, died Thursday, September 27, 2007, at First Care Medical Center, Fosston MN.

The youngest of eight children, Ernest William was born April 12, 1921, to Emil, Sr. and Katherine (Kohout) Uhlir. He attended the Harvey Country School and began helping out around the farm as a young man. On September 25, 1946, Ernest was united in marriage to Hazel Baglien at Faaberg Lutheran Church, Rindal, MN. Following their marriage, they took over the Uhlir family farm, where they made their home and raised their two sons, Duane and David. Ernest was a beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.

Ernest was a leader in his community serving several years on the church board at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Bejou and 28 ½ years on the Bejou Township Board. Ernest was proud of his Bohemian heritage holding a lifelong membership with the ZCBJ Lodge.

Farming was the lifestyle Ernest loved. He farmed his entire life, from grains and dairy cows to beef cattle later in life. He was proud to be a farmer and proud of the fact he was born and lived his entire life on the family farm except for the last year at Cornerstone Residence in Fosston. Ernest and Hazel were awarded the Farmer and Homemaker of the Year in 1990.

Ernest had a passion for his music. He enjoyed singing and playing the guitar for family, friends and neighbors. Ernest shared his talents at area nursing homes entertaining the residents. He treasured having his family and friends come to the farm to share a long visit and lunch.

Ernest is survived by his wife of 61 years, Hazel, of Fosston, MN, two sons: Duane (Sue), of Fargo, ND, and David (Jean), of Bagley, MN; seven grandchildren: Anthony (Maxine), of West Fargo, ND, Kristi (Shaun) Moritz, of Florence, AZ, Daniel (Corrie), of Cass Lake, MN, David, James, Katherine and Thomas, all of Fargo; three great-grandchildren: Alexander and Katie Uhlir and Jonathan Ernest Moritz; brother-in-law, Harlan (Carolyn) Baglien, of Winger; sister-in-law, Jan Hagan, of Ocala, FL; step sister-in-law, Irene Hanson, of Kansas City, MO; special niece, LaVerne Onstad, of Blaine, MN; and several nieces and nephews.

Preceding Ernest in death are his parents, five sisters: Albina Velk, Lydia Hauge, Mary Gunderson, Agnes Yonker and Irene Pladsen; two brothers: Emil, Jr. and Henry; and one brother-in-law, Clayton Baglien.

Blessed be the memory of Ernest William Uhlir.