Ernie Bjorkman

Ernest James Bjorkman "Ernie" passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, June 25, 2023. He was 79 years old.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Clyde and Edna, and his wife of 54 years, Arlene. Ernie is survived by his son (retired USAF Lt. Col) Christopher S. Bjorkman (Margo) from Columbus OH; daughter, Dr. Julie Bjorkman (Rajesh David) Chicago IL; five grandchildren: Emily, Joe, Ella, and Rachel Bjorkman, and Mia David; and his special partner of the past five years, Debbie McLaughlin of Salem OH.

Ernie was the third of five children, born in 1944, son of Clyde and Edna Bjorkman. A 1962 graduate of West Branch High School, he enjoyed playing football - a sport he would love all of his life. Ernie was one of the co-founders of the original West Branch Little Warriors football league and served as athletic director and coach from 1974 to 1979. During that time he also served as President of the Eastern Buckeye Football League. The Little Warriors league is still active today. He authored the West Branch High School History of Football book in 1983 taking great care to include relevant statistics, record holders and all team member names from 1960-1983.

Before retiring in 2014, Ernie spent 52 years working across the engineering field and had a long history with a variety of local firms including Morgan's, Roberts, and East Ohio Machinery. He retired from Butech Bliss in charge of inside sales, where he had the longest, fullest career. Without a college degree, he attended adult education classes in drafting, math and drawing in Salem.

He was a member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Alliance and an active member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles #316 in Salem.

Family and friends are invited to a celebration of life event on Saturday, August 12, from 1pm to 3pm at the Almost Home Event Center, located at 230 S 12th St, Sebring, OH 44672. Prayers and a special memorial service will begin promptly at 1:30pm.