Ernest E. Goldenman

Ernest E. Goldenman, age 87 of Zimmerman, passed away July 12th while doing what he loved, working in his Christmas Tree field. He was born April 9, 1932 to Ernest and Alice Goldenman of Zimmerman. He married Mardelle (Busbey) on June 25, 1960. They are the parents of Randy (Julie) and Terri of Zimmerman, Brian (Dan) of Mahtomedi and Jana of Golden Valley. He is survived by his 2nd wife Ruth, sister JoAnn (Don) Barstad of Aurora, MN and brother Dennis (Marge) Goldenman of WI, stepchildren Deb Kirkeeide of Minnetonka, Tim Allen of Altadena, CA and Melissa (Bob) McGarry of Brooklyn Center. He was dearly loved by many grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Ernie was a Godly man and lived his life with integrity. He loved his family dearly and was dearly loved back. He was a selfless prayer warrior who instilled faith and Godly principles in everyone he knew. He loved hunting and family fishing trips to Lake Kabetogama.  Watching and listening to sports was his favorite pastime, especially the MN Twins. 

Ernie worked as a research farm manager at Cargill for 29 years. While at Cargill, he started Goldenman Christmas Trees. Once retired, he put all his efforts into the farm. His tree farm was his pride and joy. If the subject of Christmas trees came up, he would talk your ear off if you would let him. He worked tirelessly on the farm and would work until late into the evening until there was little light. He felt that he was providing a great service to help celebrate the season. His motto for the business was “Remember the reason for the season”. 

He was very involved in his community and many organizations including; a cofounder of Zimmerman Evangelical Free Church (The Refuge) where he also served in many capacities including Elder; served on the school board of the Elk River public schools for many years; a cofounder and served on the board of Project Increase, a ministry to the Jamaican people which brought him to the island every year for thirty years; an active Gideon; a member and past president of the Minnesota Christmas Trees Growers Association; Army Reserve which instilled a love for his country and patriotism.

And above all, he loved and honored his Lord and Savior in everything he did.

All funeral activities will be held at The Refuge-An Evangelical Free Church at 25620 4th St W, Zimmerman, MN. Visitation will be July 26th from 6-9 PM and July 27th from 10-11 AM. Service at 11 AM. 

Donations can be made to Project Increase or Gideons International. 

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