Ernest E. McFadden

Ernest E. McFadden, a proud Navy veteran, stock car racer, avid fisherman, hunter, skilled mechanic, Lionel toy train enthusiast, and devoted family man, passed away on September 17, 2023, at the age of 96, in Elgin, Illinois.

Ernest was born in Evansville, Indiana in 1927 and spent most of his life in the Midwest. In May 1945, he enlisted in the United States Navy and proudly served his country during World War II. After his honorable discharge from the Navy, he returned home and eventually married Jeanne. Together, they moved to Carpentersville, Illinois in 1955 and raised their three daughters, Eileen Johnson, Kathleen McFadden, and Colleen Kapaun in that town. Sadly, Eileen passed away in 2012 before Ernest.

Ernest was a man of many passions. He loved spending time with his family, fishing, hunting, working on cars, and racing stock cars in the 1950's in Chicago, Illinois. He was also a skilled mechanic who could repair anything, from cars to household appliances, as well as a collector of Lionel toy trains. He would often spend hours repairing and restoring vintage trains, and he enjoyed sharing his love of trains with his grandchildren. He was a dedicated father who always put his family first. He was a source of strength, wisdom, and encouragement to his daughters, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and even great-great-grandchildren. Ernest was known for his generosity and honesty.

Ernest will be remembered for his strong character, his unwavering commitment to his family, his service to his country, his love of the outdoors, his mechanical skills, and his passion for Lionel toy trains. He valued hard work, honesty, and treating others with respect and kindness. Ernest was a private person who didn't talk much about his personal beliefs, but he believed in living a good and honorable life.

Ernest is survived by his two daughters, Kathleen McFadden and Colleen Kapaun, and their families, including his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his memory will live on through the love and memories he shared with others.

Ernest was not a religious man, but his passion for life, his skills, and his love for his family will always be remembered by those who knew him. He will be missed by his family, friends, and community.

Final arrangements entrusted to Fox Valley Cremation Services.

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