Ernest Bednar

Ernest Albert Bednar, 93, of Pequot Lakes, passed away peacefully on February 12, 2025.

Ernie was born on September 20, 1931, in Pierz, Minnesota, to Katherine (Motsche) and Robert Bednar, Ernest was raised in the South Long Lake area of Brainerd.

Ernest's remarkable life was defined by his dedication to both his country and his family. He served honorably in the United States Air Force, enlisting in 1948. He worked as a radar technician and remained in active duty until 1960. Afterward, he joined the Marine Corps Reserves, training on weekends, before returning to the Air Force in 1966. Ernest was stationed in South Carolina and spent time on temporary assignments at Patrick Air Force Base in Florida, and the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, where he worked for Federal Electric until 1972. During this time he married Angelique Vocelle on November 25, 1960. He later pursued a career in the trucking industry, as an independent driver, and driving his own truck, hauling furniture, sand, and rock, and worked with companies such as Mayflower and Disneyland.

In 1973, Ernest returned to Kennedy Space Center as a Senior Instrument Technician for one year before continuing his work in the trucking business. He then worked at Bahama Islands working for Auteck Electronic Tech. He went back to trucking and drove for Ray Strob in Florida until 1975 and then went to Alaska Money and Love.

Ernest had a love for adventure, and one of his favorite pastimes was local dogsled racing in Palmer, which brought him great joy.

In September 1995, he married Gayle Anderson and they resided in Pequot Lakes.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Gayle; his son, Ernest Jr. of San Francisco; and his two daughters, Mary of Gainesville, FL, and Margaret of Brooksville, FL. Ernest will be dearly missed by his family and all who knew him. His legacy of service, hard work, and dedication will live on in the hearts of his loved ones. Interment will be held in the spring time at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Brenny Family Funeral Chapel.