Ernest L. Serena, W9DE SK SK November 23, 2015 QCWA Number: 04859 Ernest L. Serena Born: Date; In Town Died: Date; In Town Ernest L Serena, (age 92) passed away peacefully November 23, 2015 at Joliet Area Community Hospice. Ernie was born and raised in Joliet, IL. A graduate of Joliet Township High School Class of 1941. A proud U. S. Navy veteran of WWII submarine service and the Korean Conflict. Ernie retired from WLS TV Chicago after 31 years, proudly being one of the pioneers of videotape broadcasting, previously employed by WLS radio. An amateur radio operator W9DE for over 75 years, Ernie corresponded with every country in the world. A diamond member of the ARRL. Ernie is survived by his daughters, Mary Kay (Ron) Caparros and Peggy (Dave) Barrows. His beloved grandchildren, Maggie (Bryan) Stevenson and Marc Barrows; and two great grandsons, Carter and Caleb Stevenson. Preceded in death by his beloved wife, Matilda; parents, Margaret and Thomas; and one brother, Thomas. Anyone who knew Ernie loved him for his outgoing and friendly personality. Ernie was a regular at McDonald's on Jefferson St. where he visited every day. A special thank you to his wonderful friends and neighbors on Mason Ave. who always were there to help him out. Also Theresa from Chet's Hair Salon, Martha from Silver Spoon Restaurant, and the staff at Senior Star at Weber Place who took such great care of him. Funeral from the Blackburn-Giegerich-Sonntag Funeral Home Friday, November 27, 2015 at 10:45 a.m. to Church of St. Anthony for a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:30 a.m. Visitation Friday from 9:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. Interment Mount Olivet. In lieu of flowers donations in Ernie's name can be made to Joliet Area Community Hospice for all the compassionate care they administered to him in his last days. Published in The Herald-News on Nov. 26, 2015 - See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/th...pid=176664183&fhid=16037#sthash.rPkEwniG.dpuf
