Ernest John Niskala Jr.

Ernest John Niskala Jr.

June 12, 1932 - January 15, 2013

Preceded in death by parents, Ernest Sr. and Aili (Wick) Niskala.

Ernie was born and raised in New York Mills, Minnesota. He graduated from New York Mills High School in 1950 and enlisted in the Navy. Ernie was one of 61 survivors of the 1952 USS Hobson (DMS-26) sea tragedy; and from that experience, he lived every day as if it were a gift. He attended many of the Hobson Memorial reunions in Charleston, South Carolina, and was proud of his service in the military. He spent most of his career in Chicago as a Region Director of Sales for Budget Rent a Car Corporation. He often spoke highly of his coworkers and had many memories of his work in Chicago and San Francisco. In his retirement, he lived in Stillwater, Minnesota; Bayfield, Wisconsin; and Fargo, North Dakota. Ernie's life was well-lived. He recognized the importance and reward of hard work, found happiness in the simplicity of life, and embraced those around him with a gracious and thoughtful manner. He touched many lives along the way, and he will be fondly remembered by his family and friends. At his request, there will be no memorial service. Interment will be at the Topelius Cemetery.

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