Ernie P. Cox

Ernie P.  Cox, 81, of Fenwick, passed away Tuesday March 30, 2021 at Spectrum Health Butterworth Campus in Grand Rapids. Ernie was born on April 17, 1939 in Wilton, Alabama, the son of L.G. and Willie Estella (Smith) Cox.

In the 1960’s Ernie along with two of his brothers moved to Grand Rapids like many others looking for work. He became a talented sheet metal worker joining the Sheet Metal Workers Union Local No. 7 and the Sheet Metal Worker International Association. Ernie enjoyed that line of work and retired in 1998 after many years of service.  He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and spending time at the sporting  events of his children and grandchildren. With his heart still in Alabama,  Ernie  and his family always enjoyed the many trips they took to visit family and friends back home in Alabama. Earnst married Kathleen Rene Park on June 12, 1965 in Grand Rapids. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Ernie  is loved and survived by his wife Kathleen and their children; Evelyn Garvey (James Vandenboss) of Grand Rapids, Ernie (Kelly) Cox of Belding, Thomas (Ami) Cox of Ionia and Patti (Jeremiah) Baldwin of Fenwick, 11 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren and siblings; Gary Cox of Grand Rapids, Charles Edward Goggins of Calera, AL, Reba Chandler of Plantersville, AL and Annette Vardaman of Calera, AL. Ernie  was preceded in death by his parents, brothers; Loyce Cox, Frank Cox, sisters; Elsie Smith and Lyda Faye Snell.

In keeping with his wish’s cremation has taken place. A memorial luncheon  and military honors will take place on Saturday April 10, 2021 from 1:00-4:00 PM at the Belding American Legion. Memorials may be given to Spectrum Hospice or a charity of one’s choice. Envelopes will be available at the legion during the time of the service and Johnson-Feuerstein Funeral Home, Belding where funeral care has been entrusted. 

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