Ernest W. Bednorski

Hamilton – Ernest W. “Ernie” Bednorski, 79 of Hamilton passed away November 26, 2015 at Valley View Estates Nursing Home in Hamilton.

Ernie was born January 24, 1936 in Wausau, Wisconsin the son of the late Julius and Delphine Kczarski Bednorski.  He graduated from Wausau High School in 1954 and earned his BA degree from Pepperdine University.  Following his education Ernie joined the US Navy.  He married Alice Neussbaum and the couple had two sons, they later divorced. 

Ernie joined the Los Angeles Police Department in 1970 and served until his retirement in 1991.  While a police officer Ernie worked security and as an extra on numerous Movie and Television shows.  He was a member of the Air National Guard and retired at the rank of Master Sergeant. 

In July 1982, Ernie married Maria Volpe.  The couple bought property on Ponderosa Drive in Hamilton and began building their new home in 1983.  In 1991, they permanently moved to Hamilton.  It had been Ernie’s dream to have a small hay, cow and calf operation.  He was always a hard worker.  After a serious illness in 1996, Ernie was given new life with a Kidney transplant given by his son Keith.  This gift gave Ernie another 12 good years.  

In later years along with hunting and fishing, Ernie substitute taught at Hamilton High School.  It was refreshing for Ernie to experience young good quality bitterroot kids.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Julius and Delphine Bednorski; brother, Edwin and his wife Jean along with their two sons, Mike and Gregg; sister, Julieanne and lastly his beloved dog Hunter.

Surviving include his wife, Maria; sons, Craig (Lailus) and Keith (Amanda); grandsons, Lance, Brandon and Christopher (Ashlee).

A funeral mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, December 3rd at St. Francis Catholic Church with Father Jim Connor officiating.  Military honors will be presented by the US Air Force, Marine Corps League – Bitterroot Detachment and the Hamilton American Legion.  Interment will take place at Riverview Cemetery in Hamilton. 

The family suggests memorials to a charity of the donor’s choice.