Ernest "Ernie" Zeller

HAMILTON - Ernest A Zeller, 82, of Hamilton passed away Thursday, February 20, 2014 at St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula. He was born August 19, 1931 in Long Beach, CA the son of Edward and Bridget Zeller.

Ernie was raised and educated in Long Beach. After high school he enlisted into the U.S. Navy in August of 1951 and served until he was honorably discharged 4 years later. Ernie married Patricia R. Hiers on November 23, 1951 in Long Beach.

He worked as a machinist for over 40 years until retiring. In 2002 Ernie and Pat moved to Hamilton, MT. He enjoyed bowling, camping and riding motorcycles. In his later years, Ernie enjoyed reconnecting with many childhood and Navy friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia, in August of 2013; his parents; and several brothers and sisters. Ernie is survived by his daughter, Beverly Zeller of Hamilton; his son and daughter-in-law, Michael and Leslie Zeller of Corvallis; 2 sisters, Patricia and Mona; his step-granddaughter, Amy; and his 2 cats, Cowboy and Mama.