Ernest Dale Bayink, Ernie, passed into glory on Wednesday October 15th, 2025, surrounded by family.  Ernie loved life and his special charm was to make everyone feel welcomed and loved.  He never missed an opportunity to tell a joke or a story to make you laugh.  Ernie was always willing to lend a hand to his friends and neighbors or share his barn full of treasures.  Ernie has joined many close friends and family in heaven, graduating from his earthly health struggles into a peaceful eternity.

Ernie is survived by his wife of 55 years, Linda;  daughter and son-in-law Sara and Arthur (JR) Cole; son Brad; grandsons Devin and Daniel Cole; Graham, Carter and Noah Bayink; brother Gary Strickland; Robert Sinnett; sister Johanna Bancroft; many nieces and nephews.

Ernie had many friends and loved the neighborly choir practice on the lake.  Ernie will be deeply missed by all who knew him and especially his family.  He lived life to the fullest and he did it his way.

WHEN I'M GONE

When I come to the end of my journey And I travel my last weary mile,

Just forget if you can, that I ever frowned And remember only the smile.

Forget unkind words I have spoken;

Remember some good I have done, Forget that I ever had a heartache And remember I've had loads of fun.

Forget that I have stumbled and blundered And sometimes fell by the way.

Remember I have fought

Some hard battles and won,

Ere the close of the day.

Then forget to grieve for my going, I would not have you sad for a day, But in summer just gather some flowers And remember the place where I lay

And come in the evening

When the sun paints the sky in the west, Stand for a few moments beside me And remember only my best.