Fred G. "Fritz" Ernst, 67 of Shumway, passed away Thursday morning, November 8, 2018 at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana.

A memorial service will be held at 5:00 p.m. Saturday, November 17, 2018 at Bauer Funeral Home in Effingham with visitation being held for one hour prior to memorial service. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the American Cancer Society - Effingham County Relay For Life or to Crossroads Cancer Center in Effingham. Online condolences may be expressed at www.bauerfh.com .

Fritz was born February 23, 1951 in Peoria, the son of Fred and Shirley (Barlow) Ernst. He married Belinda Bourn on October 28, 1995 and together they owned and operated Ernst- Layton Fire Control. Fritz was a dedicated fan of the Chicago Bears and Chicago Cubs. He was involved with the Effingham County Relay For Life, enjoyed attending auctions and was an exceptional poet.

Fritz is survived by his wife, Belinda of Shumway; daughters, Laura (Steven) Storey of Bethalto, Jennifer (Doug) Harmon of Trivoli; Beckie Ernst of Knoxville, Jamie Ernst of Farmington, Tawnia (Nathan) Monnet of Heartville, Heather Brown of Altamont and Faith (Greg) Evans of Vandalia; sister, Eva and brother, Don; 20 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.

Fritz was preceded in death by his grandparents; parents; sisters, Marsha and Judy, and brother, John.