Travis Shane Ernsberger

DARBY - Travis S. Ernsberger, age 52, passed peacefully, surrounded by his family on June 17, 2020, following a courageous battle with cancer.    

Travis was born on March 25, 1968 to Jerry and Rita Ernsberger in South Bend, Indiana.  When Travis was a young child the family moved to Darby, Montana where he quickly fell in love with the mountains.  At the age of 21, Travis met his other half, Nicole Bonnett, and the two were married in October 6, 1989. Together, they had three children, whom he adored:  Brittney, Garrett, and Bridger.  

He loved being challenged: the mountains helped satisfy his desire. He prided himself on his early acquisition of firewood and his ability to fill his freezer at the end of every hunting season.  He had an uncanny knack for finding the best spots to find the elusive morel mushroom. His passions became life lessons he passed on to his son and daughter.

His best times were, of course, when he was on an adventure with his family. Many of these adventures took place in the Rocky Mountains. Magruder Ranger Station, in particular, held a special place in his heart and was his favorite place to be.  His adventures took him beyond these mountains as well.  He explored the Mayan Riviera, the bayous of Louisiana, and even went skydiving!  Each adventure was accompanied by this trademark smile and not a trace of hesitation.   

Travis was a hard worker all his life.  He was also a treasured community member and friend. He left his mark on the Darby community, as well as the lives of countless individuals.  He was a pillar of strength and love for his family and his friends.  He will be missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him.  

Travis was preceded in death by his son, Garrett.  He is survived by his wife, Nicole; his children, Brittney Hamblen and Bridger Ernsberger; his parents, Jerry and Rita Ernsberger; his brother, Steve (Susan) Ernsberger; 4 nieces and nephews, and his in-laws.  

Services will be held at 2:00 on Sunday, June 28, 2020 at the Daly-Leach Memorial Chapel.  Due to COVID-19 guidelines, those who wish to attend are asked to wear a mask and maintain personal distance.   Condolences may be left for the family at www.dalyleachchapel.com. 

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