- Date Of Death: February 17, 2016
- State: New Jersey
Harry R. Erny, long time resident of Burlington Twp., NJ departed this earthly life for his heavenly home on Wednesday, February 17 at 94 years of age. Born Henry Reickert Erny, he was the youngest child of George and Irene Erny. He arrived in the Tacony area of Philadelphia on July 14, 1921.
The bright eyed, blonde headed little boy with the mischievous grin was ready to take on the world. After graduating from Bristol High School in 1939, Harry worked for the Paterson Parchment Paper Company in Bristol, until along with many friends and family he entered the US Army in November 1943. Due to his leadership abilities and aptitude for math, he was chosen by the Army Air Force. Here he mastered piloting various aircraft. He later became an instructor in “piloting”, “dead reckoning” and radio navigation. He left the Army as a 1st Lieutenant in October 1945. He married his high school sweetheart, Betty Greenlee on April 6, 1945. Following his father’s footsteps, Harry went to work for the Prudential Insurance Company.
He and Betty had four children: Terry Erny Simpson, Linda Jeanne Erny (deceased), Gary Wayne Erny, and Kenneth Stephen Erny. Harry is survived by 3 children, 10 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. This extended family has many times expressed their gratefulness for the godly heritage and example he provided to them. Harry and Betty loved the Lord Jesus Christ and sought to serve Him throughout their almost 70 years together, by caring for others and giving of themselves to encourage many through life’s circumstance. Harry was also involved in numerous civic activities from Civil Defense to Economic Development in the Township.
He was ready to participate in any sport as player or coach. He was proud to be a “Life Time Member” of the Beverly Road Fire Station. He was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Willingboro. After his retirement from Prudential, Harry and Betty became “snow birds” taking up residence in Colonial Colony South in Daytona Beach, FL, making many new friends and enjoying their new environment. After the passing of his dear wife, Harry became a resident of Riverview Estates in Riverton, where he became part of a new community and spent time enjoying the activity on the Delaware River.
