Ernie Ellis Cain, a lifelong Sioux City resident, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a whole lot of love, laughter, and memories that won’t be forgotten. He was born April 21, 1950, in Sioux City, Iowa, to Harold and Margaret Cain.

Ernie graduated from Central High School and went on to proudly serve his country in the United States Navy. After that, he spent 45 years working at Mercy Medical Center, where he wore many hats, most notably as transportation manager. While he always said his dream job was to be a truck driver, the truth is he found his calling in helping people. Along the way, he earned plenty of awards, a great deal of respect, and friendships that lasted a lifetime.

On June 28, 1980, he married his best friend and the love of his life, Deb Oakes. Together they built a life full of laughter, strong family ties, and countless good times. He is survived by Deb and their children: Hal (Christie) of Lancaster, Virginia, Toby (Jodi) of McMinnville, Oregon, Jeff of Sioux City, Iowa and Melisa Schager (Ryan) of South Sioux City, Nebraska.

Ernie was a proud grandpa better known as “Bumpa” to Linsi, Rylee, and Karlie; Corey and Felicia; and Journey, Jade and Ellis. He was also blessed with two great-grandchildren.

He is survived by his mother-in-law, Norma Oakes; brothers- and sisters-in-law Marla and Randy Pence, Kellie and Rod Weikert, and Dave and Lori Oakes; along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his younger brothers, Mike and Craig; his father-in-law, Merle Oakes; and his niece, Emily Weikert.

Ernie had a soft spot for dogs especially his grand pup, Sami and never missed a chance to give any animal a little extra attention. In his younger days, he loved riding his motorcycle and coaching girls’ softball, where his sense of humor and that unmistakable laugh made him someone you didn’t forget.

He treasured time with friends, especially the weekly dinners with “the gang,” He also appreciated the simple things in life: a McDonald’s tea in hand, trips to Las Vegas, Destin and the Lake of the Ozarks, cruising around in his convertible Volkswagen, and watching The Wizard of Oz more times than anyone could count. He took pride in his yard, too always making sure it was best on the block.

Ernie stayed active in his community, including serving on the board of the Telco Triad Credit Union. He was always willing to lend a hand, crack a joke, or share a smile.

If you knew Ernie, you knew his warmth, his quick wit, and how easily he could light up a room. He was just one of those genuinely good guys the kind you don’t come across every day. As a husband, dad, Bumpa, and friend, he brought joy wherever he went. He’ll be deeply missed, but the laughter and love he gave will stick with all of us.