Ernest L. Trinkle, II

Ernest L Trinkle II, born on May 25th,1965 in Danville, IL was called home to be with the Lord, our Savior on March 25th, 2025. He passed away peacefully, at home with his family including his three best boys, Rumshine, Harley, and Hank.  He was born to Ernest L Trinkle and Dorothy Jean (Drake) Trinkle who both proceeded him in death.

Ernie married Karen McKown on Oct 31, 2018 at Kennekuk. They have been together for over 26 years. 

Ernie leaves behind his wife, his beautiful children, Karah L. Trinkle (Michael Maniquis) and Michael J. Foehrer, his best friend, business partner, and Best Man L. Tyler Langston Jr, his nieces and nephews that he absolutely adored, Haleigh Nicholson(Cody), Hope Bickers(Daniel), Hannah Kincade, Mia Hilton(Blake), Elyse Brown(Michael), Stephenie Wheeldon(Troy), and Gavin Long.

Ernie leaves behind so many people who loved him and were lifelong friends.  Ron Goetzelman, whom Ernie spent many weekends with knee boarding on the lake. His childhood friend (his second family as he called them) Jimmy Musson and his mother, according to Ernie made the best food around and said there was always a spot for him at Rosemary’s table. Tom Watson, who he spent many winters walking in the woods, he missed that so much in later years. There are so many people that have wonderful memories with Ernie and he treasured you all.

Ernie had so many fun hobbies over the years from paintballing, golfing, mushroom hunting, scuba diving and shooting his guns.

Ernie and Karen attended Life Church (The LC) where he gave his life over to the Lord. He thoroughly enjoyed listening to Pastor Archie. He was a passionate gardener and had a green thumb that no one could match. He and his wife spent many seasons together enjoying their backyard gardening, their flowers, and watching all the different birds enjoying the bird feeder. There was nothing he couldn’t grow. He enjoyed traveling with his wife and was the first person to get her to fly.

He co-owned Better Days with his best friend L. Tyler Langston, Jr., who were famous for their safety meetings (IYKYK). They were also partners in construction business as well.

Ernie had a special bond with his team at Better Days, he loved them all and they loved him.  He loved going in and harassing Cookie and Jo in the kitchen and giving them a hard time.

Ernie was happiest when he was spending time with his wife and their kids.

Service information:

Cremation rights were completed by Rortvedt Funeral Services & Crematory in Tilton, IL

A celebration of life will be held April 6, 2025 11-3pm at Better Days in Tilton, IL.

Online condolences: www.rortvedtfuneralservices.com.  

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