Obituaries » Ernest Walker Byrd
Ernest Walker Byrd
October 1, 1923 - June 5, 2015
Ernest Walker Byrd, 91, died June 5, 2015.
Visitation will be 10:30a.m. – 1:00 p.m., June 13, 2015 at Ankeny Memorial Chapel. Graveside services will follow, at 1:00 p.m.
He was born, along with twin sister Elaine, on October 1, 1923 to Sanford and Etha Mae Byrd in Riceville, Iowa. He grew up on the family farm near McIntire, IA. After high school, he farmed with his dad and brother Kersey until enlisting in the U.S. Navy in 1943. He served his country for 3 years during WWII on two different ships in the Pacific theater. After discharge in 1946, he was employed by Oliver Corporation followed by the Chicago Great Western Railroad for 18 yrs. where he achieved role of chief electrician. He then followed a dream of working for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and retired as Lockmaster at Lock and Dam #12 at Bellevue IA after 27 yrs.
During retirement years Ernie and Jan enjoyed spending time with family and friends while living at Waterloo IA, Lakeview AR, and Ankeny IA.
At the time of death, he and his wife Janice, resided at Madrid Home Communities at Madrid, Ia. Survivors include wife Janice, son Kevin (Carol) of Polk City, IA, son Randy (Laura) of McAllen, TX; grandchildren James, Olivia, and Casey Byrd of Polk City; also Valerie (Daniel) Backhaus of Edinburg, TX, Julie, and John Byrd of McAllen, TX, and sister Elaine Hansen of Woodbine IA.
Ernest was preceded in death by his parents, 1 sister Pauline Roloff, and 2 brothers Kersey and Carroll.
Memorials may be given to Hope Ministries in Des Moines or the family.