Greg Ernst

Greg Ernst, age 65, of Ellis, Kansas, passed away on Saturday, February 3, 2024, in Ellis. He was born on July 30, 1958, in Russell, Kansas, to Lionell "Sonny" and Mary (Cannon) Ernst. Greg attended school in Russell. On January 22, 1982, he married Gayle Gilpin in Ellis. 

Greg was a long-time driller in the oilfields, primarily with WW Drilling. He enjoyed fishing, riding motorcycles, collecting and shooting guns, although he wasn't necessarily a hunter. Greg cherished outdoor activities, especially spending time with his grandchildren.

Greg is survived by his wife, Gayle of Ellis; his mother, Mary Reinhart of Russell; three step-sons, Shane (Amy) Buchholz, Charlie (Yi-Tan) Martin of Glendale, Arizona, and Tyler Watson of Manhattan, Kansas; a brother, Joe (Tessa Meis) Ernst of Wilson, Kansas; a sister, Kay (Steve) Ickler of Russell; a sister-in-law, Carla (Michael) Stiles of Hill City, Kansas; a brother-in-law, Tom Kacsanek of Glendale, Arizona; grandchildren, Jordyn Buchholz, Andrea Buchholz, Trinten Ernst, Matthew Ernst, Harper Buchholz, Leighton Buchholz, Haven Watson and Annistyn Watson as well as five great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his father, a son, Lucas G. Ernst, and a sister, Julie Honas.

A celebration of Greg's life will be held at 3:00 PM on Friday, February 9, 2024, at Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory-Brock's Chapel, located at 2509 Vine, Hays, KS 67601. 

Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. 

Memories and words of comfort may be shared on Greg's tribute page at www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com.