Ernest "Ernie" Franklin Staack, 90, passed away with his family by his side in Syracuse, NE on August 24, 2011. Born at home on September 17, 1920 in Syracuse, NE to Julius and Minnie (Meyer) Staack, Ernie grew up there and graduated from Cook High School in 1940.

He entered the Navy in 1942 during World War II and courageously served our country for four years as a signalman, primarily on the USS Eaton in the Pacific Theater. He was awarded a commendation for heroism and numerous medals, including the Philippine Liberation Medal - WWII, Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal - WWII, Navy Good Conduct Medal and the World War II Victory Medal.

After returning home from the war, Ernie met Kathleen "Kay" Markland. They were married on October 6, 1946 in Weeping Water, NE, and began nearly 65 wonderful years together. In 1952 Ernie and Kay purchased Tonsing Furniture in Syracuse, NE. They changed the name to Staack Furniture and worked there until retirement, handing on the business to their daughter, Linda Parde. The store still proudly bears the Staack name.

Ernie was an active member of the community in Syracuse, serving on many boards and organizations including the School Board, Economic Development Board, Methodist Church Board, the NRD and president of the Chamber of Commerce. He was an avid golfer, hunter, woodworker and Husker fan. Together with Kay, they were dedicated supporters of their grandchildren's sports and activities. Ernie leaves his family with many years of treasured memories as a patient and devoted grandfather, father and husband.

Ernie is survived by his wife, Kay, daughter & son-in-law, Linda & Don Parde, daughter & son-in-law Diana & Kirk Simmons, brother & sister-in-law Gene & Joan Staack, and brother Orville Staack, grandchildren and Step-grandchildren Michelle (Rossitto) Wachter & husband Russ, Christine (Rossitto) Fisher & husband Randy, Brian Rossitto & wife Amy, Kevin & Cherine Parde, Ken & Vicki Parde, Kim Parde, Michele (Simmons) & Shawn Summers, Kenny & Carolyn Simmons, 17 great grandchildren, Kirsten, Jordan, Bryce, Morgan, Teagan, Finley, Justin, Kaili, Hunter, Adam, Chris, Tim, Samantha, Trevor, Joseph, Grace, and Riley, and one great great grandchild, Anthony.

Ernie was preceded in death by his parents, sister-in-law, Ruby Staack; and great-grandchildren, Courtney and Alex.

Funeral Services will be at 10:30 A.M. on Monday August 29 at the United Methodist Church in Syracuse. Visitation will be on Sunday August 28, 2011 from 9 A.M. until 9 P.M. with family greeting friends from 5 until 7 P.M. at the Funeral Home in Syracuse. Interment will be at Park Hill Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to the Families Choice.

Fusselman-Allen-Harvey Funeral Home in Syracuse, NE is in charge of the arrangements. 402-269-2441