Ernestine M. Heinlen

Ernestine M. Heinlen, 93, of Bucyrus, died Monday, October 30, 2017 at Altercare of Bucyrus.



She was born August 26, 1924 in Kemnath, Germany to the late Hans and Theresa (Kruger) Lehner. Ernestine completed her schooling and shortly thereafter was drafted into the Hitler Youth Army; working for Arbidienst, Kriegshilf dienst and with the Criminal Police towards the end of the war before immigrating to America where she became a war bride, marrying Robert G. Heinlen on January 18, 1948.



Ernestine worked at Swan Rubber for many years; was a secretary for the Council on Aging and served as a teacher’s aide at Kearsley School where she enjoyed reading to students. She was a member of the Bucyrus Nazarene Church where she taught Sunday School, sang in the choir and will mainly be remembered as a very faithful attender. Ernestine was one of the founding members of the International Friendship Club and was the last surviving member. She had been very instrumental in organizing the craft show at the Bratwurst Festival and this past festival, she was proud to have ridden on the Carle’s float during a parade at her spry age of 92. She enjoyed her flowers and was a member of a local garden club. Ernestine spent many hours in her vegetable garden and often canned what was grown. She knitted, crocheted and sewed and she had a knack for baking and cooking; with her hazelnut cookies and German dishes being family favorites. She cherished time spent with family, especially her grandchildren and they often did some sort of craft which created great memories.



Ernestine is survived by two children, Bruce (Barbara) Heinlen of Galion and Rebecca (Randall) Hieber of Bucyrus; six grandchildren, Brett (Jessica) Heinlen, Bethany (Kyle) Zeuch, Brooke (Zach) Daniels, Blake (Malorie) Heinlen, Ryan (Andrea) Hieber and Rich (Tara) Hieber; 10 great-grandchildren, Katelyn, Keith, Makenzie, Kip, Maddox, Harper, Jack, Carson, Crosby and Cooper as well as her extended family who live in Germany.



In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Robert and a brother, Theo Lehner.



Her family will receive friends from 5 – 8 pm Thursday, November 2 at BUCYRUS NAZARENE CHURCH, where her funeral will be held at 10:30 am Friday with Pastor Ray LaSalle officiating. Burial will follow in Oakwood Cemetery.



Memorial contributions can be made payable to either Gideons International or Bucyrus Nazarene Church (Building Fund). These gifts will be accepted through the Wise Funeral Service or at the church during any portion of her service times.