Higgins, Ernest 'Ernie' Lee

Ernest “Ernie” Lee Higgins, 62, of Cedar Rapids, died Wednesday, Oct. 10, 2012, following a courageous battle with cancer. Memorial services will be held 11 a.m. Monday, Oct. 15, at First Assembly of God Church, 3233 Blairs Ferry Rd. NE, with a visitation starting at 10 a.m. at the church. Brosh Chapel is handling arrangements.

Ernie was born Aug. 8, 1950, in Los Angeles, the son of Earnest Higgins and Ruby Florence Seaton. He joined the United States Army at the age of 18 and served during the Vietnam War. Ernie was employed by Junge Automotive for several years until his retirement due to his health issues. He married Karen Kay Koster on July 3, 2002, in Cedar Rapids. He was baptized at First Assembly of God Church and accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior.

Ernie had a passion for golf, his church, family and especially his grandchildren. He loved being outside working on the yard and enjoying God's creation.

Ernie was active at his church, serving on the security team, participating in the Passion plays and volunteering where needed.

Ernie is survived by his wife, Karen; stepsons, Vincent (Wanda) Edwards and Vance (Terri) Edwards; a stepdaughter, LeVonne (Troy) White; grandchildren, Matt, Dylan, Brooke, Tiernan, Treytan, Maija and Dalton; a great-grandchild, Lane; sisters, Joanne Richardson, Carol Henderson and Robyn (Bob) Muncie; sisters-in-law, Angie (David) Sickels and Corliss (Bob) Sackett; brothers-in-law, Ross (Nancy) Koster and Victor (Nancy) Koster; and several nieces and nephews.

Ernie will be greatly missed for his sense of humor and his caring ways.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Joe and Bob; and a sister, Connie.

Instead of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in Ernie's name.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.broshchapel.com.

Published Oct. 14, 2012 in The Gazette