Ernest Kettner

Ernest "Ernie" Lawrence Kettner , 93, of Sedalia passed away Tuesday, October 18, 2016 at Good Samaritan Nursing Home in Cole Camp, MO. He was born on July 11, 1923 in Olpe, KS the son of Gustav J. and Lillie (Schroeder) Kettner, who preceded him in death.

On October 28, 1947 in Emporia, KS he was united in marriage to Doris Jean Witherspoon, who survives in Sedalia.

Ernie was a 1941 graduate of Emporia, KS High School where he served as president of the FFA. He served his country honorably in the United States Army Air Corp from December 7, 1942 until February 12, 1946 serving three years in Africa. Ernie enrolled in a couple of different Radio Communication Technical Schools and graduated in June of 1947. He and his partner, Harry Rodgers, opened up Central Communications Service Company at Whiteman Air Force Base in 1962. He installed and serviced all of the two-way radios for WAFB and 99% of the contractors related to the Minute Man Missile Program at the Base. In 1965 he and Harry built a communication shop in Sedalia to provide communication services to Sedalia and surrounding areas. Ernie was a charter member of George A Whiteman American Legion Post #642, Sedalia. He enjoyed going fishing and after retiring in January of 1987, Ernie and his wife Doris enjoyed traveling the country in their fifth wheel trailer.

Besides his wife Doris, he is also survived by a son, Keith Kettner and his wife Pam of Sedalia; a daughter, Joyce Sims and her significant other, John Sederburg of Nixa, MO; five grandchildren, Joshua and Kristina Kettner, Mary Kettner, Jason Sims, Patrick and Ashley Sims, Scott Sims; a great granddaughter, Jenna Sims.

A celebration of life service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, October 22, 2016 at Our Savior Lutheran Church with Pastor Chris Kellogg officiating.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church.

Burial will be at Memorial Park Cemetery with full military honors conducted by VFW #2591.

Memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer's Association in honor of his wife Doris, in care of Rea Funeral Chapel.