Ernest Louis Sheldon

Ernest Louis Sheldon Ernie, Louis, Rusty, The Major, and Dad Rusty, a faithful, protective, and loving husband of Ruth Sheldon for 73 years, will be missed greatly. The love they have for each other was evident and the Christian Tenets they lived by will be the legacy for their children, grand-children and great- grandchildren. He was a great man. Rusty Sheldon, born on December 5, 1921, went to his heavenly home to be with His Savior and Lord on January 26, 2016 at the age of 94. He will be greeted there by his precious grandchildren; Andrew, John, and Rachel Sheldon and also Jack Thomas, his parents, brothers, Jack and Dick, and sister Melba. His family, who has surrounded Dad/Grandpa with prayers of comfort and peace, now await a joyous reunion in heaven. Remembering The Major with great love and appreciation are his children, David A.(Sue) Sheldon, Carol A. Sheldon, Dr. Mark E. (Patricia) Sheldon, Rev. Barry (Kathy) Sheldon, Gregory (Terri) Sheldon, and Timothy (Janet) Sheldon. Papa, a wonderful, loving and fun grandfather, will be remembered by his grandchildren: Stephanie (Sean), Ryan (Michelle), Philip (Mikan), Jeremy (Jenny), Carie (Ben), Andrea (Aaron), Sarah, Kristin (David), Melissa (Keith), Lesley (Matt), Peter (Rachel), Paul (Heather), Erik, Evan, Kyle (Corrine), Lauren (Craig), Kerrin (Elaine), and Nolan (Alexis). The great-grandchildren: Leah, Libby, Hannah, Abby, Zach, Noah, Josie, Connor, Jaiden, Julian, Trinity, Teagan, Fiona, Dylan, Avery, Drew, Maggie, Ryan, Sophia, Stella, Mark, Paige, Jake, Henry, Samuel, Emeline, Peter, and Timothy, will continue to enjoy the many stories and lessons from their great-grandfather. Ernest Louis was born in Johnstown, PA. to John and Melba Sheldon, the oldest of 9 children. He joined the Army at the age of 18 and began his career in the Army Air Force. After meeting at the USO in Columbus, Indiana, Rusty was determined to see Ruth again. He did, and they were married July 18, 1943. Many letters passed between them while Rusty served in the 36th division, 141st infantry division from Texas with artillery and reconnaissance expertise. He participated and, by God's grace, survived very difficult battles: which include the Rapido River crossing in Ansio, Monte Casino, and the lost battalion battle. he came home to his pretty wife, Ruthie and had a blessed life. He decided to become a Lutheran, for most of his career. Mr. Sheldon enjoyed his job and service to the Christian church and schools. And after work, Dad would find the time to line his six kids up to keep them in line. Mom was thankful for this, Dad and Mom taught their children life lessons, often by example. R and R were a championship team. The integrity, faithfulness, trust, and love from them both were evident and all of his children appreciate the strong foundation we have been given. We all look to the future when we will be reunited through faith in Christ. Friends may visit at Wm. Sullivan and Son Funeral Home, 8459 Hall Rd. (3 blks. E. of Van Dyke) Utica on Friday from 3:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Funeral service Saturday at Trinity Lutheran Church, 45160 Van Dyke, Utica where he will lie in state from 9:30 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. time of service. Interment Glen Eden Memorial Park East. Memorials suggested to St. Matthew Lutheran Church, Lexington. Please share a memory at www.sullivanfuneraldirectors.com

Ernest Louis Sheldon

December 5, 1921 - January 26, 2016