Josef Ernst

Josef Ernst, 86 of Woodbury, N.J.  passed on  into  eternal life on April 4, 2017.  Josef was born in Arzberg, Germany on August 29, 1930 to Barbara and Michael Ernst.  He was trained and worked as a Mill Wright.  In his youth he enjoyed playing soccer and skiing.  He was a member of the Catholic Youth Society, where he met his wife, Franziska.  They were married on September 8, 1951. To make a better life for his wife, and daughter Agnes, the family was given the opportunity, through Catholic Relief Services, to come to the United States of America. On December 19, 1956, they arrived by ship in New York City harbor, greeted by the Statue of Liberty.  From there, they went to Magnolia, NJ where their American dream began. Joseph worked for Fisher Steel for 36 years.  He had passion for music and was an active member of the Germania Maennerchor, and St. Patricks Church Choir. He enjoyed traveling and loved his flowers and garden. He is survived by his devoted wife of 65 years, Franziska (nee Stoehr), daughters Agnes Strassner (Markus) and Anita Ciconte (Christopher), and his two grandchildren Corey and Christina.  He is also survived by his sister, Agnes Timper, and his nieces Doris and Helga. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Elizabeth Roman Catholic Church, Cedar and Rodney Sts, Wilmington, DE 19805 on April 10, 2017 at 11:00 a.m., with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m.  Interment will follow Mass in Silverbrook Cemetery.