Ernest “Ernie” Edward Whitaker, 77, of Cincinnati, Ohio, passed away due to complications from heart disease on August 23, 2014 at his Colerain Township home surrounded by his loving family.

Ernie was born February 12, 1937 in Hamilton, Ohio. Ernie was known as “Pa” to his doting grandchildren.

He graduated from Colerain High School in 1956 and worked for the Cincinnati Enquirer for 39 years as a press operator and assistant pressroom manager.

Ernie was known for his wonderful sense of humor, which he kept until the end, along with his beautiful smile. He loved fishing and boating on the Cumberland River, bowling, reading western novels, watching classic westerns, and spending time with family and friends.

Ernie is preceded in death by his parents, John and Grace Whitaker and his son-in-law, Dave Cramer.

He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Carolyn. He called himself the luckiest man in the world for finding Carolyn and thanked her every single day for loving him so much. He left this world hand in hand with his “sweetie” whose gentle care, love and devotion provided him endless comfort and peace.

He is also survived by his 4 children, John (Mary Lynn) Whitaker, Mark (Alison) Whitaker, Amy (Curt Lyons) Cochran, and Kelly Cramer; 8 grandchildren, Rebekah Whitaker, Thomas Whitaker, Rachel (Matt) Jessup, Michael (Jessica) Whitaker, Nicholas Whitaker, Zachary Cochran, Aaron Cramer, and Noah Cochran; 3 great-grandchildren, Carson Whitaker, Rowen Jessup, and Melody Whitaker; brother, Ron (Jean) Whitaker; 2 nephews, Ronnie (Kelly) Whitaker, and Jason (Michelle) Hunt.

The family will receive friends at Groesbeck United Methodist Church, 8871 Colerain Ave., on Saturday (August 30) from 10:00 a.m. until time of service at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Dave Mack officiating. A special thank you to Dr. Dirk Hines, Crossroads Hospice of Cincinnati and Mary Lynn Whitaker for their compassionate care.

If desired, memorial contributions may be made to Groesbeck United Methodist Church or Crossroads Hospice. Special condolences may expressed at www.frederickfh.com.