Friedrichs Funeral HomeErnest Andrew Stefely, a first generation American, was born to Austrian immigrants Andreas (Andrew) and Katharina (Katherine) Berzsenyi Stefely in 1927.  Ernest grew up in Chicago, IL, living and working there as a cement mason until retirement, when he moved to Phoenix, AZ.  He was a member of the Chicago Cement Masons Union Local 502, and proudly served in the Army.

Ernie married Marion Konzier in 1952, and they had three children: Ernie, Michael and Jacqueline.  He leaves behind these loving children and Ernie’s wife Laurie, four grandchildren Samantha, Katie, Donald and Jessica, and Samantha’s husband Garrett George and their daughter Madison.  Ernie is also survived by his sister Mary, of Stephenson, MI, and was predeceased by his twin brother, Steve, of Kingman, AZ.

Ernie was a positive, happy, outgoing man who loved his family.  He was a devoted husband, caring for Marion while she has battled cancer.  Always a reader and note taker, he was a vigilant and loving caregiver who was once heard saying to mom in a moment of crisis, “Don’t worry, Marion, we’ll get through this together.

Lying in State Monday from 9:00 AM until Mass 10:00 AM at St. Cecilia Church, Golf Rd. (Rt58) at Meier Rd Mt. Prospect. Interment St. Michael the Archangel Cemetery.