Beloved father of six, grandfather of fifteen, great-grandfather of ten, and big brother to Marilyn and Nikki. Ernie was a graduate of the United States Naval Academy and Catholic University of American Law School. He proudly served his country as a Naval Officer from 1950 to 1979 achieving the rank of Commander. He was especially proud of his service during the Vietnam War. After retirement, Ernie began a second career as a substitute teacher and mentor to students at Broad Run High School in Loudoun County. He was an avid hunter and shared his affinity with the outdoors with any and all who showed interest. Ernie was also a committed gardener and generous gourmet as any who sat at his table will attest. He was happiest standing at the head of the table holding court over Thanksgiving Dinner or surrounded by his friends and family anywhere in the wilds of Wisconsin, Alaska or Virginia. His knowledge on all subjects from History to Mathematics to politics was astonishing. Ernie was a true renaissance man and one of nature's noblemen. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Effie Hilyard Lietzan. He will be missed by all who knew him. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Wounded Warrior Project (www.woundedwarriorproject.org)