Obituary of Monica M. Ernst

Monica Ernst, Age 75 passed away on July 10, 2020. Monica was born on December 22, 1944 in Evergreen Park, Illinois to Lucas and Mary (Kapustiak) Pollack. Monica married the love of her life Erwin on September 4, 1965; they would have celebrated their 55^th anniversary this year.

Monica leaves behind her beloved husband Erwin; sons Greg and John; daughter in law Jennifer (Shortreed) Ernst; grandson Joshua; and granddaughters Abigail, Madeline, Lauren and Brooklyn; cherished sister in law to Bob, Kathy and Joan Ernst; Aunt to Joseph Ernst, Christine (John) Badke, Bill, Christine, Danielle, Jana Schacht; she also leaves many cousins, nephews and nieces.  Monica is preceded in death by her parents Mary and Lucas; sisters Mary (Pollack) Moreno and Loraine (Pollack) Vallarious; brother in law Otto Ernst; and sister in law Judy Schacht.

Monica was a dedicated wife and mother who treasured her children and husband and embraced every moment with them. Monica especially loved her role as grandmother. She had a vivacious personality and always made people around her laugh. She made friends everywhere she went.  Monica was a resident of The Villages for the past 15 years, which became a very special place that was near and dear to her heart. 

Monica was a master cook in the kitchen. She believed a full stomach led to a happy heart. Her holiday displays and dinners would make any family jealous. Monica was very proud of publishing her cookbook of prized family recipes, treasured by her family and friends. The book titled, “From Our Hearth to Your Heart,” also features her artwork completed during her time in The Villages.  Monica dedicated the cookbook to her parents; “In grateful remembrance of the sacrifices you made. A heartfelt thank you for your encouragement in all that I ever wanted to do.  Every day I appreciate the special memories and traditions that you so generously shared and that I am able to pass on to your grandchildren and to their children. Love Monica Pollack Ernst”. (2012)

Please join us celebrating her life on Tuesday, July 21, 2020 between 10:AM-12:PM at HIERS-BAXLEY Funeral & Cremation Life Event Center, 3975 Wedgewood Lane, The Villages FL 32162.  A celebratory mass will be on Wednesday, July 22, 2020 at 10:AM St. Marks Catholic Church 7081 SE Hwy 42; Summerfield, FL 34491.  Sentiments may be left online at www.hiers-baxley.com.