Ernest "Ernie" Paul Thomack

Ernest Paul “Ernie” Thomack, 65, of Litchfield, passed away Friday, February 9, 2024 at HSHS St. Francis Hospital in Litchfield.  Born in Neligh, NE., on February 23, 1958, a son of Rev. Alwin Willian and Ruth Serene (Aamoth) Thomack.  Ernie attended schools in Otwell and Terre Haute, IN., and he graduated from Massac County High School in Metropolis, IL., with the Class of 1976.  He attended St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN. and studied music.  He married the former Janice Ann Meyer on May 15, 1982 at the Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church in Gillespie, IL. and she survives. 

In his early working years, Ernie was employed at Ruyle Burial Supply and its successor, Lincoln Casket Co.  He was warehouse manager and deliveryman.  He then was elevated to salesman and held that position for several years.  He then became the area insurance agent for Aid Association for Lutherans prior to it becoming Thrivent. 

Ernie was a well-known talented professional musician and vocalist.  He was currently one of the organists at Zion Lutheran Church, where he was a faithful member, and the director of music. He participated in the church Easter passion play, “The Promise”, as the music director. Ernie also filled in playing the organ at various churches in the area.  He was also a trumpeter, playing “Taps” for several Veteran military funeral honors ceremonies.  He also played and sang at numerous weddings and funeral services over the years. Ernie was also involved with the music programs of Litchfield Community Unit School District, preparing students for music contests and often serving as accompanist for those events, and played in the pit band for high school plays and productions. He was often involved providing piano background music for local fund-raising dinners and events.   In addition to his musical talents, Ernie enjoyed sports, and was a certified IHSA referee, officiating baseball, basketball and soccer games.  As his children grew up, he was active in coaching sports teams, and did so for several years. 

In addition to his wife Jan, Ernie is survived by sons; Andrew (Caitlynn) Thomack of Highland, IL. and Timothy (Katy) Thomack of Parker, CO. and daughter, Anna (Bryce) Clayton of St. Louis, MO. Three brothers; Luther (Barbara) Thomack of Moorehead, KY, Walter (Yvonne) Thomack of Maysville, MO. John (Colette) Thomack of Jacksonville, FL. and his sister Ruth (John) Phillips of Newport, MI.  Brother-in-law Wayne (Pam) Meyer of Algonquin, IL.  Eight grandchildren; James, David, Josie, Walter and William Thomack, Zeke and Asher Thomack, and Eleanor Clayton.  Ernie is preceded in death by his parents. 

Funeral Services for Ernie will be held Saturday, February 17, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at the Zion Lutheran Church in Litchfield. The Rev. Fred Kraemer will officiate, and burial will be in the Edgewood Cemetery in Litchfield.  Visitation will be held Friday from 2:00 until 7:00 p.m. at Zion Lutheran Church.  The family asks memorials be directed to Zion Lutheran Church of Litchfield.

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