Ernest T. Bentz, 80, of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, went home to be with His Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Feb. 8, 2023, in the early hours. Ernie was born in rural Heil, N.D., to Jacob and Emma (Hintz) Bentz, in a community where he spent his early years and moved to Leith, N.D., where his parents operated several businesses.

He leaves behind his devoted wife, Rose Marie (Flitsch), also of Leith. They were married Sept. 5, 1965, and were devoted for 57 years.

Ernie joined the U.S. Navy at the age of 17 and served a four-year commitment, and was in the Navy Reserves for two years. He then rejoined the Navy for another four years, serving several tours in the Vietnam War, and proudly served as a Radar Operator on the Admirals Fleet, ending his service in 1969.

He worked for I.B.M. as a service technician until his retirement. He enjoyed building our home near Rathdrum, Idaho where he had a hobby farm. He moved to Coeur d’Alene when the upkeep on the acreage became burdensome! While he had his farm, our three children were involved in the 4-H program and Ernie and Rosie were involved leaders, receiving 4-H Leader of the Year for Kootenai County in 1996.

Ernie enjoyed fishing and going back to North Dakota for our annual trips to pheasant hunt. If there was something to be done, Ernie was usually in the middle of it.

Ernie is survived by his wife of 57 years, Rosie, of Coeur d’Alene; daughter Heather (Bentz) Rigby; son-in-law Richard; granddaughter Christina; grandsons Donald, Ryan, Liam and Andy Bentz; and great granddaughter Avery. He also leaves behind three sisters and numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by sons, Larry and Richard Bentz; brothers Erhart and Lawrence Bentz; sister Abby; and his parents, Jake and Emma Bentz.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, Feb. 17, 2023, at Maple Street Community Church (9485 N. Maple St. Hayden, Idaho 83835). Please visit Ernie’s online memorial and sign his guestbook at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.