Robert "Eddie" Ernest, 74, of Portland, passed away Monday, December 20, 2010. He was born August 19, 1936, in West Chester, Pennsylvania, the son of John and Winona Ernest. He was a decorated Korean War veteran, proudly serving in the US Air Force, which ignited a passion for anything to do with airplanes that was present until his death. He is survived by his treasured wife of 52 years, Nancy; 3 daughters, Cindy (Brad) Mooney of Laingsburg, Sandy (Jeff) Akright of Grand Ledge, and Sue (Kevin) Crittenden of Brighton; 6 grandchildren, Ryan (Tanya) Mooney of Grand Rapids, Drew Mooney (Jenna) of Grand Rapids, Becky (Mike) Cornell of Grand Ledge, U.S. Army Spec. Sarah (Spec. William) Losson of Fort Eustis, VA, and Kelsey and Maranda Crittenden, both of Brighton; and 2 great-grandchildren, Rena and Amelia Cornell of Grand Ledge. His 3rd great grandchild is due in July of 2011. A Memorial Service will be held 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, January 13, 2011, at the Schrauben-Lehman Funeral Home, 210 E. Bridge St., Portland. A funeral lunch will be held at V.F.W. Post #4090 immediately following the memorial service. The family will receive visitors on Wednesday, January 12, 2011 from 1-3 p.m. and 5-7 p.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made in Robert's name to the Chi Heart and Surgery Center at Ingham Regional Medical Center. irmc.org/foundation. Online condolences may be made at www.schraubenlehman.com.