Ernest Salyer

Ernest E. Salyer, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 22, 2025, at Northwest Health, Porter Hospital, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was 63 years old. Born on June 18, 1961, in Valparaiso, Indiana, Ernie was the beloved son of the late Earl D. and Ruth (Jolley) Salyer. A lifelong resident of the North Judson area, Ernie was a proud and hardworking man who spent the majority of his career at Greenmark (formerly Gilsinger’s) Equipment, retiring as store manager after years of dedicated service. On June 4, 1983, in Hamlet, Indiana, Ernie married the love of his life, Donna Meyers. Together they built a life full of love, laughter, and unwavering support for one another. Ernie was known by all as a kind, caring soul who never met a stranger. His warm personality and quiet strength touched everyone he met. Ernie had a deep love for the simple joys of life. He took great pride in his lawn, carefully crafting straight mowing lines that reflected his meticulous nature. He had a passion for cars and took special enjoyment in detailing them to perfection. Gardening brought him peace, and he found happiness in nurturing the beauty around him. But above all, Ernie cherished his time with family. He delighted in every moment spent with his grandchildren, especially enjoying golf cart rides that became treasured memories. He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 42 years, Donna; their three daughters Amber (Brian) Berg, Ashley (Kyle) Terry, and Alicia (Nicholas) Grezenko; and six adored grandchildren: Carley and Cayleb Berg, Kylee and Kynlee Terry, and Everleigh and Huxley Grezenko. He also leaves behind his brother-in-law David (Katherine) Meyers, sister-in-law Carolyn Salyer, nephews Dawson Meyers and Stephen Chavez, and many extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly. Ernie was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Earl Dean Salyer. Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. CDT on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at Rannells Funeral Home, Hamlet Chapel. A funeral service to celebrate Ernie’s life will take place at 11:00 a.m. CDT on Friday, May 30, 2025, at the funeral home, with an additional hour of visitation prior to the service. Burial will follow at Hanna Cemetery.