Ernest P. Gabrish
March 16, 1924 – May 19, 2013
“Ernie” Gabrish was born in Fort Dodge, Iowa in 1924 to Peter and Veronica Gabrish (deceased). He graduated from Fort Dodge High School and three days later he and his brother, Joe, were drafted into the U.S. Army. He served in the invasion on Okinawa and Leyte during World War II.
After the war Ernie and his brother moved to Manitou Springs, Colorado and began careers as electricians. They worked on the government radar sites in Alaska in the summers and wiring NORAD in the winter. He was a lifetime member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW)-Local Union #113 in Colorado Springs.
Ernie was an avid hunter and fisherman. He had a great appreciation for the outdoors and the many friendships he made with fellow outdoorsmen over the years. Ernie was known far and wide for the great stories he told about his hunting and fishing adventures.
Ernie passed away of bone cancer at the home of his beloved niece and caretaker, Carol Nelson of Manitou Springs, Colorado.
There will be a Potluck Celebration of Life from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday May 26th at the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers-Local Union 113, 2150 Naegele Rd., Colorado Springs, Colorado 80904. Directions to the location: From U.S. Highway 24 – go north on 21st Street, then take the first left on to Naegele Road.