Submitted by: Dan Rich

Ernest A. Joy

Feb. 8, 1922 -- June 29, 2006

South Bend Tribune 7/1/2006

Ernest A. Joy, 84, of Granger, passed away peacefully on June 29, 2006. He was born on February 8, 1922, in Winchester, Indiana, to Albert and Marie (Spies) Joy. Ernest was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Christine Stauffer; a brother, Orlo (Bud) Joy; a son, Thomas Joy; and a step-granddaughter, Amanda Barker. Survivors include three sons, Harold (Nancy) Joy, Richard (Debra) Joy, William (Tina) Joy, all of Granger; eleven grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren; and a sister, Leatrice (Sis) Joy of Granger.

Ernest was a veteran of WWII, having served with the United States Army, 540th Combat Engineers. He was a long time resident of Granger, and founded various businesses over the years, including Joy's Excavating Co., Joy Septic Tank Co., Joy's John's and Joy's Self Lock Storage. He was one of the early members of the Harris Township Volunteer Fire Department, and also served on the PHM School Board. Ernest was a loving and devoted father and grandfather. He will be greatly missed.

Friends may call from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Monday, July 3rd in Bubb Funeral Chapel 3910 North Main Street, where a procession will be formed to St. Joseph Valley Memorial Park for a graveside service at 3 p.m. with Rev. Ervin Mize officiating. Military honors will be conducted by VFW Post #360 and American Legion Post #161. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of the donor's choice.