Ernest Bane Kalles
Ernest Bane Kalles
On September 10, 2009 God took into His Kingdom our brother, father, uncle, grandfather, friend, and often our mentor, Ernie Kalles. He passed away after a short but brave bout of cancer at his home in Moses Lake, in the presence of his friends.
Ernie was born December 18, 1932 in Independence, Oregon, to Frank and Ellen (Houghton) Kalles. He was raised in Clear Lake, WA, and graduated from Sedro-Wolley High School.
Ernie joined the Navy in 1950, and after Basic and his Class A school, went to the Philippines. In typical fashion, he then was re-assigned to a completely different job – thanks to his friend and shipmate, Jim (Tex) Gough –and served his hitch as a DJ in Armed Forces Radio, Phllippines.
Ernie returned home, married Lorraine Willis. They had four children: Bill Kalles, Ron (Lynn) Kalles, Jim Kalles, and Jeri (Bud) Humen. While he had many jobs during his life, his biggest love was as a musical entertainer. His band – “The Other Brothers” – toured many states in the western and mid-U.S. He performed locally in Ephrata and Moses Lake, as well, at the old Turf, Elmers, BSI, among a few.
In his later years, Ernie was an officer in the American Legion Post 209, Moses Lake. His love for the Post, and his fellow veterans had no limit. His belief in his veterans and his country was absolute. His presence, his insight, and his love for us will be greatly missed.
He is survived by his children, many grandchildren, nieces, nephews, his sisters Micky Brown, Nan Bradley, and Edith Lobe. His many friends, and fellow veterans who cherished his company will miss him dearly.
He was preceded in death by his parents, sisters Georgia and Kelly, brother Kal, and granddaughter Jessica Neatrour-Kalles.
Ernie’s memorial service was held October 24, 2009 at the American Legion Post 209 in Moses Lake. The family and friends wish to thank the many friends and groups who made this a wonderful experience, including Washington Army National Guard, Yakima; U.S. Navy Reserve, Spokane; American Legion, Moses Lake; Honor Guard, American Legion Post 28, Ephrata; Chaplain Richard Radder, Becky, H.; Mary, Ken T, Dave O., and Margeret and Don, as well as so many others. Without your help, none of this would have been possible.
Cremation was handled by the Neptune Society of Spokane, WA.
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