Ernest 'Ernie' Edwin Newell, 84

Ernest “Ernie” Edwin Newell, 84, of Mullan, Idaho, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and brother, passed away July 26, 2025, surrounded by his family in the home he built himself in Mullan. Ernie was born March 11, 1941, in Chamberlain, S.D., to Dorothy Newell Welling, the oldest of three boys. 

Ernie met Janet Zingler, the love of his life, in the summer of 1964 and they were married Nov. 21, 1964. They had three children — Dale, Kristie and Keith. In his earlier years, Ernie was an avid snowmobiler and a member of the Mounted Sheriffs Posse. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend. Ernie enjoyed camping trips with his family and was known for his ability to build anything and repair what was broken. Ernie retired from the Lucky Friday mine with 37 years of service.

Ernie is survived by his wife, Janet, of 60 years; his children, Dale (DeeDee) Newell, Kristie (Rick) Smith and Keith Newell, all of Mullan; his grandchildren, Jackie Smith, John (Chelsea) Smith, Shasta (Jordan) Jolley and Travis (Madison) Newell; his great-grandchildren, Hunter and Tucker Smith, Addison, Cedar and Bear Jolley, and Svea Newell; his brother, Joe Welling, of St. Maries, Idaho, and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Ernie was preceded in death by his mother, Dorothy, and brother Charlie Newell. 

As per Ernie’s request, no service will be held.

Memories of Ernie and messages of condolence may be shared online with his family at www.shoshonefuneralservice.com. Shoshone Funeral Services, Kellogg, is assisting the Newell family with arrangements.