Obituary of Ernest Presseau Jr.

Ernest Presseau, Jr. lovingly known as “Ernie” died peacefully at his home in Brookfield on January 8, 2021 with his wife Rita and family by his side.  Ernie was born on April 18, 1932 to the late Joseph and Mary Presseau.

Ernie grew up in New York and then lived in the Bronx and Tuckahoe, New York until he found the gem of Candlewood Lake and Brookfield where he has resided for 52 years.  He was happily married for 66 years to the love of his life, Rita. He lovingly raised three daughters and was a significant part of his six grandchildren’s lives.

Ernie loved his wife, family, and home life above all else but also loved his country.  As a US Marine, he served in the Korean War and was proud of his service and to hold the badge of a Marine.  His love of people and conversation led him to be a conductor on Metro North Railroad for 35 years until his retirement.

After his retirement, Ernie fulfilled his passion for woodworking and made special gifts of furniture, mirrors, frames and so many other beautiful pieces –all out of love.  A story and joke teller, Ernie was a magnet for a crowd and laughter was always top on his list.  Playing his harmonica, listening to Dean Martin, and thinking he too, was a singer, was all part of Ernie’s charm.  Ernie could fix anything – amazingly handy; his home and yard gave him great enjoyment. He loved the YMCA where he would swim his many, many laps and, in fact, his popularity earned him the title, of “The Mayor.” A strong cup of coffee, a strong handshake, and everyone loved Ernie. 

Ernie will be so missed and is survived by his beloved wife, Rita Mae Presseau; daughters, Nancy Rita Presseau (Tango Kizis), Kathy Louise DellaMura, Laura Anne Linabury (Mark Ogden Linabury); grandchildren, Rachel Alana Miller (Mark Stephen Servello), Candice Diana Presseau (Vincent Ellison Rotondo, Jr.), Nicholas Ernest DellaMura (Erica DellaMura), Jacob Francis DellaMura, Hayley Florence Linabury (Richard Russell), and Samuel Ogden Linabury; and great grandson, Greyson Ernest Miller. He is also survived by his siblings, Grace Parks, Frances Appold, Robert Presseau, Eugene Presseau, and Michael Presseau. Ernie is predeceased by his beloved son-in-law, Frank DellaMura, and siblings, Leo Presseau, Evelyn Morris, Edwin Presseau, Roger Presseau, and Alice Stelmack.

Ernie’s Life Celebration will be announced by the family in the future.  In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital and ASPCA, in honor of Ernest Presseau, Jr.