Ervin A. Westfahl

Ervin A. Westfahl

Oct. 22, 1916 - Dec. 11, 2011

NORTH PLATTE, Nebraska -- Ervin Arthur Westfahl was born to Charles and Elda (Tietz) Westfahl on Oct. 22, 1916, above the family cheese factory at Sugar Bush, Wisconsin. The family soon moved to Eland, Wisconsin, where he grew up.

Ervin attended Central State Teachers College, now known as University of Wisconsin, Steven's Point, where he met Marguerite Adams. They were married July 21, 1939, in Grace Lutheran Church in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

He taught math and coached basketball and baseball at high schools in Tigerton, Wisconsin, and Minnooka, Illinois, before going to Purdue University as a civilian instructor in math and science for the Navy. While there he also received his degree in electrical engineering. He worked for John E. Fast Company of Chicago, Illinois, until 1960, when he was hired by Goodall Industries of Ogallala, Nebraska. From there he was transferred to TRW Industries in McCook, Nebraska.

While in McCook, Ervin was active in Lions Club, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and Our Savior Lutheran Church. He served many years on the city council, as well as Mayor of McCook. He enjoyed traveling, and spent his retirement years visiting other countries until settling in North Platte, Nebraska.

Ervin is survived by his wife of 72 years, Marguerite; their four children, Barbara Oltmanns, Scott Westfahl, Steven Westfahl and Kristi Westfahl; 11 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Roland.

A memorial has been established in his name.

On-line condolences may be shared at www.carpentermemorial.com.

Cremation was chosen.

Memorial services will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 16, 2011, at Messiah Lutheran Church n North Platte with the Rev. Tim Eighmy officiating.

Those wishing to sign the register book may do so Wednesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Carpenter Memorial Chapel in North Platte, which is in charge of arrangements.