Ernest Carrier

On Wednesday, March 18, 2020, Ernest Joseph Carrier, loving husband and father of eight children, passed away at the age of 89.  Ernest was born on July 30, 1930, in Olga, North Dakota, to Joseph and Marion (Dauphanis) Carrier.  He worked around his home until he enlisted in the Army in November of 1948.  He proudly served his country until 1952. 

On November 28, 1958, Ernest married the love of his life, Estelle Gratton, at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Church in Olga, North Dakota. Ernest and Estelle lived west of Olga for 10 years, then moved to Milton, North Dakota, where they made their home for the past 50 years. 

Ernest loved working in the fields helping farmers with their crops.  He was the custodian at the Milton High School for 13 years and he also did various jobs around the community.  Ernest was known for his kind gestures and great stories, his big wave, his love for music, his incredible laugh and smile, and especially his love for the outdoors and hunting.   Opening day of deer hunting was like a holiday.  He thoroughly enjoyed spending time at his hunting shack with his wife and family.  Ernest was a devout Christian and honored his Catholic faith throughout his life.  He was also very proud of his French / Native American Métis heritage. 

Ernest is greatly missed and survived by his wife of 61 years, Estelle; his daughter Joni (Tracy) Klein, Mandan, ND; his sons Craig (Jody) Carrier, Walhalla, ND; Gene Carrier, Grand Forks, ND; Shawn (Denelle) Carrier, Cavalier, ND; Joe Carrier, Moorhead, MN; Jason (Christy) Carrier, Fargo, ND; Shane (Jeni) Carrier, Neche, ND; and daughter LaRae (Shon) Horgan, Walhalla, ND.  Grandchildren: Tannen, Brant, McKenzie, Elijah, Bo, Cole, Ariel, Ashden, Whitley, Andre, Eden, Boone, Willow, Morgan, Carli, Sasha, Conley, Lauren, Lacey, Kyla, Bradyn, Jayce, and 13 great-grandchildren.  Ernest was also greatly loved by his wonderful siblings of 16 sisters and 6 brothers. 

Ernest was preceded in death by several family members, including his father, Joseph Carrier, and his mother and father, Marion and Ovila Charbonneau.  A graveside service will be held at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Cemetery, Olga, ND on May 15, 20